Wedge technique

• Horizontal and vertical wedge excision of excess skin is removed from the ear. The site of incision is closed giving the ear a new size and shape.
• Suitable for earlobes that stick out in addition to being large.
• Correction of prominent ears (otoplasty) can also be performed in the same procedure.

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Peripheral edge technique

• Peripheral edge or lower part of the ear is removed, and the incision is closed to give the ear a new size and shape.
• Suitable for heavy drooping earlobes.

• Smaller, aesthetically pleasing earlobes
• Earlobes balanced with facial features
• Youthful appearance of earlobes
• Anatomical restoration of earlobes
• Concealed, inconspicuous scar
• Short, outpatient procedure

During your first consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss your preferred size, position, and type of procedure. Additionally, you will discuss on the following things:

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Medical history

It is important to give honest answers with regards to your medical history. This allows your surgeon to make accurate and safe decisions with regards to the procedure. Inform your surgeon about any medications, surgeries, or allergies you have/had. You must also inform your surgeon if you have diabetes, circulatory problems, thyroid problems, and other health issues if any. 

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Physical examination

Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your ears and help to identify any problem areas that can be treated with earlobe reduction. 

After this, you and your surgeon will discuss the options available and the possible results with each option. Once the treatment plan has been decided for you, your procedure will be booked. Before the procedure, you must:

• Stop smoking: smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and hinders the healing process. It also increases your risk of tissue damage.‍
• Stop some medications: medications such as aspirins and anti-inflammatory drugs are blood thinners which may increase bleeding during and after the procedure.

Earlobe reduction is conducted as an out-patient procedure, meaning you will not be required to stay overnight at the hospital if all goes well. Earlobe reduction should take approximately 90 minutes and involves the following steps:

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Wedge technique

• Your earlobe is marked to indicate the areas of incision.
• Local anaesthesia is administered to your ear.
• The marked wedge area of excess skin is removed.
• Incision is closed with sutures.

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Peripheral edge technique

• The outer edge or lower part of your earlobe is marked to indicate the areas of incision.
• Local anaesthesia is administered to your ear.
• The marked outer edge of your earlobe is removed.
• Incision is closed with sutures.