What Is Flesh Tunnel Earlobe Repair?
- Dr. Brooks
- Mar 6, 2015
- 2 min read
Updated: May 11, 2023
Flesh tunnel repair is performed on earlobes that have been pierced and stretched out over a period of time with spacers. Flesh tunnel piercings are usually performed at tattoo parlors and body modification shops.
Can Stretched Flesh Tunnel Earlobes Shrink Down And Go Back To Their Natural Shape Over Time?
Flesh tunnel piercings are a popular fashion statement, and a serious commitment because once your earlobes are stretched past a certain point, they cannot completely close on their own. They can shrink down, but the skin will not regain it’s former natural shape. Surgery has to be performed to close the opening.
How Much Can My Earlobes Stretch?
In 2014, a Hawaiian man claimed a Guinness World Record for the most stretched out earlobes, his flesh tunnels are 4 inches in diameter — a hole that is big enough to put a hand through.
Why Do People Get Their Earlobes Repaired?
Most patients say they have grown tired of the look, some patients mention that they are having a difficult time finding a job and feel discriminated because of their large piercings.
How Is Flesh Tunnel Repair Performed?
The stretched, hanging skin is removed and stitched with internal and external sutures, the procedure can take up to 45 minutes.
What Is Flesh Tunnel Repair Recovery Like?
Most people return to work within a few days after surgery. It’s important to keep your head elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling, you may be instructed to use extra pillows at night. If non dissolvable stitches are used, they will be removed within 1 week. You may have to wear a bandage or tape on your earlobe while it heals.
Your incision line will be red for the first few weeks and will begin to fade over time.
Can I Get My Ears Pieced Again After Recovery?
If you want to get your ears pierced again, you can, just avoid the scar. Either have the ear pierced infront or behind the old scar and it shouldn’t be a problem at all.
Flesh tunnel repair is a great technique for correcting stretched out earlobes caused by the big spacers. If you have a flesh tunnel ear piercing that you would like to have reversed, feel free to contact us, Dr. Trevor Brooks will let you know which technique best suits your unique needs.
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