Fixing Pulled Earlobes

Earlobe pulling is a common problem, particularly with infants who tend to tug on their ears during their teething years. Ears can also be stretched due to wearing heavy earrings over a long period of time. The skin of the earlobe is very pliable, so any continuous downward pressure on it can cause permanent stretching. Cosmetic ear surgery is an ideal way to correct stretched lobes. An incision is made at the back of the ear, exposing the cartilage. This opening then allows the surgeon to manipulate the existing skin, pulling it into a tighter shape. The incision is closed again, and sutures are put in place to hold the skin during the healing period. After this type of corrective surgery, avoid wearing heavy earrings or anything that might weigh the lobe down, as the ear will stretch again, regardless of the previous surgery.