| ELS | Earlobe Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Concerns about the appearance of the earlobes include large earlobes, stretched piercing holes or complete splits. Earlobes can be reduced, and holes or splits repaired under a local anaesthetic. I use sutures under the skin which do not require removal and dissolve within four months. |
| Scars | In reductions, the scar is at the base of the earlobe |
| Operation time | 1 hour |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Skin cones, Wound separation, Slough, Necrosis, Pain, Nerve injury (Numbness), Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Aesthetic imperfections, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction. N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Poor tissue quality can cause recurrent laxity, Asymmetry cannot be entirely corrected, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, scar massage, sun protection, silicone sheets / gel. |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | One week for light activities, 4 weeks for sports |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 -18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
