Ear lobe stitches are a cosmetic procedure that corrects irregularities in the earlobe. It has a high rate patient satisfaction and low risk. Minor complications like bleeding or swelling can happen, but these are usually resolved within one week. The rate of infection is very low, and scarring usually heals well, though it may require further treatment for thicker scars. However, a small number of patients may experience partial recurrences that can be easily treated.
After earlobe stitching, there is pain
After the anesthetic wears off, there is no pain. You can apply ointment on the incision area to minimize discomfort. To reduce discomfort, you can use hydrogen peroxide or soapy to clean the sutures. But, it is important not to submerge your ears in water. You should limit your amount of lifting, bending, and straining following the procedure. Tylenol may also be prescribed to alleviate pain.
An ear lobe repair may be necessary for many reasons. Damaged lobes can be due to injury, long-term earrings wear, or trauma. Either way, the procedure will restore your earlobe's appearance. The local anesthesia will be injected by your plastic surgeon. The doctor will then remove the damaged tissue and stitch the skin back together. You will be able drive home once the procedure has been completed.
Recovery time
The extent of the procedure will determine the recovery time, but most patients can return to work the next day. Postoperative pain is usually mild and easily manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. The first few weeks will see swelling and some sensitivity. You will soon be able return to work or normal activities.
The entire procedure takes about an hour. It is performed in your office. Local anesthesia is used. The surgeon will determine the best procedure for you based on your needs. Excess hanging skin is removed from the ear lobe to make it look more normal. With flaps or stitches, large holes due to gauges can be closed. To restore their normal shape, split ears are reattached using stitches. The stitches will disintegrate in a matter of days. Patients can then go back to wearing the pierced earrings.
Prices
Opinions about ear lobe surgery are considered cosmetic, but it is not usually covered by insurance. It can cost less than one might expect, depending on the extent and type of the procedure. Patients are required to pay anesthesia and facility costs, in addition the surgeon's fee.
The cost of earlobe stitching can vary from $400 to $1000 per head depending on how severe the damage is. The procedure takes about one hour in the office. The surgeon will first remove any skin damage and then reposition the soft tissue. Finally, small stitches will be used to bind the earlobe. After the procedure, the scar will look like a pencil-thin scar.
Side effects
The majority of side effects following surgery to the earlobe will be minimal. The procedure requires local painkillers and involves the removing of excess skin. To close the incisions, sutures are used. The procedure usually takes less than one hour. You may feel some minor discomfort or soreness after the procedure. These symptoms can usually be managed with Tylenol, over-the–counter pain relievers, and are generally not serious. The stitches are usually removed approximately one to two months after the procedure. Follow the instructions for after-operative care.
The post-operative pain is generally minimal. Most patients can return to work and home within a couple of days. While there might be some swelling and bleeding in the area treated, it is usually temporary. This side effect is common and patients usually recover in two to seven days. Patients are advised to rest and not exercise for seven to ten to 10 days following surgery to reduce scarring and infection.