| 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 don’t 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 | Cosmetic, 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, Cosmetic imperfections, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction |
| N.B. Most complications are unlikely and serious risks are rare | |
| Risk factors | Smoking, high blood pressure, bleeding tendency, diabetes |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, scar massage, sun protection |
| 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 |
