Laser Surgery for Traumatic Incomplete Earlobe Clefts

Abstract

This technique is simple to perform and has definite advantages over other methods currently in use.

The Mystery of the Split Earlobe

“…4,10 Various types of flaps were used to preserve the shape of the earlobe. 2,6,7 In addition, Z plasties were described by Hamilton and LaRossa and L plasty was used by Fearon et al 8,9 Herbich has described laser surgical repair of the incomplete earlobe, and a number of new techniques have been suggested by other authors. 7,11 The number of surgical techniques to correct a problem is an indication of the persistence of a problem seen with all of them or resulting from an unidentified underlying cause.…”

Laser Earlobe Revision

“…The use of laser surgical repair for incompletely torn earlobes has been reported in the literature. One case report demonstrated the use of an erbium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser to treat an incomplete earlobe tear . The Er:YAG laser was used to deepithelialize the anterior and posterior lower border of an incomplete earlobe tear, followed by suturing the anterior and posterior defect, resulting in a satisfactory cosmetic outcome …”

“…Torn earlobes, also known as earlobe clefts, are a complication secondary to ear piercing and a common cosmetic complaint . Earlobe tears may occur acutely from trauma such as pulling, entanglement, or abuse or from chronic heavy earring application, prolonged traction, repetitive tension from activities such as jogging, or the facial aging process .…”

“…Earlobe tears may occur acutely from trauma such as pulling, entanglement, or abuse or from chronic heavy earring application, prolonged traction, repetitive tension from activities such as jogging, or the facial aging process . Torn earlobes are classified as complete (full tear) or incomplete (partial tear) based on whether the skin bridge at the periphery of the earlobe is intact . Generally, complete tears tend to be unilateral, whereas incomplete tears are often bilateral.…”

“…Various techniques have been described for repairing torn earlobes, with the majority involving surgical methods ranging from simple excision with primary closure to the incorporation of purse string closure, Z‐plasty, L‐shaped flaps, or a combination of these . More‐recent techniques have incorporated lasers and chemicals for nonsurgical treatment of incomplete tears …”