by Chris Gill

People often come to us for help when damage to their ears, caused by piercings, is affecting their career path. It may not affect your ability to do a job but it seems that some employers are still reluctant to employ people with stretched ears.

The popularity of earlobe reconstruction has taken me by surprise

Can flesh tunnel removal help career prospects?

Piercings can stretch the earlobes beyond the skin’s natural capacity to shrink back. Generally, a hole more than 10mm in diameter will remain stretched. Flesh tunnels, flesh plugs and other heavy gauge jewellery have become incredibly popular in recent times but many people are finding that potential employers are not so keen.

It seems that some people are having difficulty accessing certain professions because of cosmetic decisions they made earlier in their life. Your abilities may not be questioned but companies can set their own dress codes and, in a competitive jobs market, stretched ears can be frowned upon. It could even affect your eligibility to join the British Army.

Patients increasingly planning ahead before joining the Armed Forces

The Army’s basic entry requirements state that “Some body piercings will stop you joining or re-joining the army, if you have piercings that change the way you look, eg: flesh tunnels that are larger than 4mm.”

We increasingly take calls from patients who need to undergo an earlobe reconstruction urgently to meet this condition. The good news is that healing times for the procedure are relatively short and so with a little forward planning most people will be able to enrol successfully.

Earlobe Reconstruction before and after photos. Surgery carried out at the Skin Surgery Clinic by Mr Andrew Williams

Recreate your original earlobe shape

Earlobe reconstruction involves the removal of the earlobe’s excess skin and the reconnection of the tissue. A anaesthetic injection will minimise any discomfort you might feel. We can repair the damage caused by piercings up to 20mm in diameter and both earlobes can be reconstructed in just over an hour.

Stretched earlobe reconstruction is an enjoyable service to provide as it can help people regain their original earlobe shape and help the move forward with confidence. Our patients have been delighted with the results.

“One week in, ear is looking great – with little associated pain. You won’t be able to tell in a few more weeks.” Daryl Mackie

For help with planning your treatment call one of our clinical experts on 01943 882011 or email the team with any questions at info@skinsurgeryclinic.co.uk.