Learn More About Earlobe Reduction
Earlobe reduction is a simple yet transformative cosmetic surgery that helps patients achieve a more balanced and youthful appearance by addressing stretched, large, or elongated earlobes. Most patients pursue this surgery to restore a more normal appearance to the earlobes, allowing them to wear earrings again, often starting with small studs once the healing process is complete. Whether for aesthetic goals or repair, earlobe reshaping can provide a subtle yet meaningful boost in self-confidence.
Earlobe reduction is a type of cosmetic surgery designed to reshape and reduce the size of overly large, stretched, or elongated earlobes. This procedure is commonly performed on individuals whose earlobes have changed due to aging, genetics, trauma, or the long-term use of heavy earrings. Earlobe reduction can also correct stretched or sagging tissue from gauged earrings or previous piercing damage.
The procedure is quick and straightforward, typically performed under local anesthesia in an office setting. Most patients choose earlobe reduction to improve the balance of their facial features and regain confidence in their appearance, often making it easier to wear earrings again once fully healed.
Earlobe reduction is ideal for adults who are bothered by the appearance of large, stretched, torn, or sagging earlobes. These changes may result from genetics, the natural aging process, previous piercing damage, or wearing heavy earrings over time. Suitable candidates also include individuals with gauged earlobes who wish to restore a more typical earlobe shape.
While most earlobe reduction patients are adults, the procedure can be performed on younger individuals on a case-by-case basis. The best candidates are those in good overall health, with realistic expectations about their results.
Earlobe reduction is a straightforward outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia in our accredited office-based surgical suite. To reduce the size or reshape the earlobe, Dr. Shienbaum carefully removes excess tissue through a small incision, often along the natural contour of the lobe to minimize visible scarring. The remaining skin is then repositioned and sutured to create a smaller, more natural-looking earlobe.
The procedure is quick—often completed in less than 30 minutes per ear—and does not require IV sedation or general anesthesia. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and any scarring is typically very subtle and fades over time.
At Brandon Plastic Surgery, our team ensures a private, comfortable surgical environment with personalized care every step of the way. Techniques used in our Lakeland, Brandon, and Riverview locations are based on proven methods to achieve safe, consistent, and aesthetically pleasing results.
To determine if you’re a good candidate for earlobe reduction or earlobe repair surgery, Dr. Shienbaum will evaluate your ears, whether stretched, torn, gauged, or naturally large. While analyzing, he will also explain how the procedure is tailored to your needs. Photos of past earlobe reduction patients will help you visualize your potential results.
Performed in our accredited facility under local anesthesia, earlobe reduction is a quick outpatient procedure, often completed in under half an hour. You’ll receive detailed pre-op instructions, including avoiding smoking, sun exposure, intense exercise, and certain medications a week prior to surgery. Plan to have someone drive you home and assist during early recovery.
Our recovery room nurse will monitor your recovery, and make sure you are warm and comfortable. She will explain what care you will require at home. That first night after your surgery, our recovery room nurse will call you and talk with either you or your caregiver to make sure you are doing well and do not have any questions.
Stitches are usually removed within a week, and most patients return to normal activities in a few days to one week. You should avoid wearing earrings, heavy jewelry, or sleeping on your ears during the early healing process. Full healing and optimal results can take a few months, and scarring is minimal and typically fades with time.
Otoplasty can not be performed until the cartilage is stable. The ears reach their final size very early in life. This occurs sometime between ages four and five.
Ear pinning and ear surgery are both common names for otoplasty surgery and refer to the same procedure.
Ear surgery does result in permanent scars, but these are well-hidden behind the ear and within the folds of the ear.
Most patients feel an itching sensation or mild discomfort, which can be treated with medication according to Dr. Shienbaum’s instructions. Any discomfort should quickly subside, so long as you do not put pressure on the ears or sleep on your sides while healing.
If you’re considering earlobe reduction surgery, Dr. Shienbaum are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options and receive personalized advice for achieving your goals.
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