The Connections Bridgewater-Somerville April 2019

www.theconnectionsnj.com EARLOBE REPAIR By: Todd A. Schneiderman, M.D. F.A.C.S. Occasionally a patient will have a problem with an ear piercing that creates a stretched or torn earlobe. Piercing problems can stretch and even completely divide the piercing site so that a cleft earlobe occurs. For some people, a habit of constantly touching or playing with heavy earrings can lead to a tear. This injury can also be suddenly inflicted, such as when an earring is caught on clothing and pulled. Stretching of the earlobe pierc- ing may occur over a long peri- od of time with extended wear of heavy jewelry. Earlobes may be stretched intentionally for body modification jewelry, and some people seek to repair the earlobes later in life. Repair to these problems can be done in the office to restore the appearance of the earlobe. What Are the Treatments for Earlobe Repair? Several techniques can be used to repair torn ear lobes. I choose the technique that is most appropriate for the injury. For instance, with a par- tial cleft, this usually involves incising through and suturing the tear. While the original piercing hole may be pre- served, it’s usually necessary to get the earlobe re-pierced after healing is complete. Surgical repair for earlobe clefts can be done in the office with local anesthetic, and sutures are removed in one week. Do you have stretched or torn earlobes? Repair your earlobes and fix those prob- lems for good! Call Dr. Todd Schneiderman today at 908-725-5050. 3322 Route 22 West, Suite 1207-1208, Branchburg, NJ 08876 908-218-0300 908-218-0301 (fax) www.branchburgoralsurgery.com We Accept Most Major PPO Dental Plans Karl Maloney, D.D.S. Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon Wisdom Teeth Dental Implants Bone Grafting General Anesthesia 3D Cone Beam CT Jaw Surgery Oral Pathology Facial Trauma PAGE 46 Health & Wellness