Ear Lobe Repair in Orange County
Earlobe surgery can include earlobe reduction or earlobe repair. Sometimes both procedures are performed simultaneously.
Earlobe reduction
Useful in patients that have started to experience sagging and enlarged earlobes as a result of aging and/or the result of wearing heavy earrings over time. Many times, patients that are having a concurrent facelift request that an earlobe reduction be performed simultaneously which is common and safe to do.
Earlobe repair
Useful in patients that have torn or stretched their earring opening as a result of trauma or stretching.
Dr. Boeckmann is an expert at both techniques and has performed numerous successful earlobe operations.
What Can Earlobe Repair Surgery Correct?
Earlobe surgery can correct:
- Torn earlobes
- Sagging earlobes
- Large earlobes
- Stretched piercing holes or ear gauges
- Disfigured earlobes
What Happens During an Earlobe Repair Surgery?
Earlobe surgery is most commonly performed under local anesthesia in Dr. Boeckmann's clinic procedure room. However, if it is being performed as part of a facelift procedure, the level of anesthesia may vary.
Prior to repair, Dr. Boeckmann will carefully listen to your concerns and work with you to devise the best surgical plan to meet your expectations.
In cases of earlobe reduction, excess tissue is removed from the earlobes, including a reduction of earring holes, if necessary, and the tissue is sutured into the new size and shape. Dr. Boeckmann uses a technique, which avoids any obvious scars once the incisions heal.
In cases of earlobe repair, the old piercing site is removed and closed. Dr. Boeckmann, again, will use a technique, which avoids any obvious scars once the incision is healed.
All sutures are generally removed between 5-7 days after the procedure. The goal, whenever possible, is to create a more youthful and natural-looking earlobe that can support earrings again after the healing process. When performed as a solo procedure, patients may usually resume their normal activities the same day. Some swelling will be present, but pain is generally minimal.
Dr. Boeckmann re-pierces the ears as part of the procedure (no added fee) at approximately 6 weeks following the surgery in order to give adequate healing time for earring support. You will need to bring in gold (minimum of 14 k) or platinum studs for the re-piercing to minimize the chance of a skin reaction. Dr. Boeckmann marks the new piercing sites with you to ensure symmetry and that the desired location is achieved.
Does Insurance Cover Earlobe Repair Surgery?
Earlobe surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure. Therefore, insurance companies do not generally cover the cost of surgery.
