Reconstruction of the ear lobe

To repair a torn earlobe is a frequent occurrence. Piercing an earlobe puts it at risk to tear. The size, style and weight of an earring can contribute to the stretching of the earlobe opening. Large earrings that dangle are caught on clothing. The result may be a partially or completely torn earlobe.. The procedure consists of "freshening" the edges of the split and placement of sutures to complete the repair of the earlobe. The stitches are removed in a week. If repiercing is desired this can be accomplished three months after the earlobe repair.

Piercing an earlobe also puts it at risk for development of a keloid. A keloid is a scar that grows beyond the edges of the pierced opening in the earlobe and is a thick, nodular, itchy cluster of scar tissue that is often red or darker in color than the surrounding skin. To discourage keloid recurrence in the earlobe steroid injections or radiation therapy may be used as an adjunct with surgery. Pressure earrings decrease recurrence of the keloid if worn after surgery.