Earlobe repair, once rarely discussed in plastic surgery circles, is now growing in popularity. The procedure offers multiple benefits, from repairing damage left by years of heavy earrings to reversing some of the newer cultural style trends. As more people are seeking earlobe repair today, plastic surgeons like Dr. Andrews at Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery in Cedar Rapids are offering the service to their patients.
Consequences of Pierced Ears
The large majority of women (and many men) have pierced ears today. In fact, many have pierced their ears more than once, which can leave them more vulnerable to the negative effects of piercing over time. While many people will go an entire lifetime without suffering any consequences of their pierced ears, others will find that wearing heavy earrings can eventually stretch the lobes. Catching jewelry on clothing or bedding can also create tears in the lobe that can be both unsightly and painful.
The Growing Gauging Trend
One of the biggest reasons earlobe repair has become more popular is due to the growing gauge trend that has become increasingly more popular. Many youths are using gauges to stretch the openings in their earlobes. Unfortunately, these young people are finding that earlobe stretching may make it difficult for them to land certain types of jobs. Even the U.S. military prohibits “willfully mutilating the body,” including ear gauging. Earlobe repair may become necessary for some that find their cultural style trend is out of step with what some employers are looking for in their current workforce.
Dr. Andrews offers all types of ear surgery, including earlobe repair, at his Cedar Rapids office. Most earlobe repairs can be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. The results of the procedure are considered permanent and the ear can even be re-pierced in many cases once healing from the repair is complete. To learn more about earlobe repair, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 319-800-6877.