Utilizing a punch biopsy device for repair of a torn earlobe has dramatically reduced the time involved in the procedure, but also allows a more precise closure.
The technique is simple. Once the ear is infiltrated with local anesthetic, the earlobe is stretched over a sterile tongue blade and a 3mm or 4mm punch biopsy is utilized depending on the size and shape of the defect. If the defect is a long slit, a 3mm biopsy can be used sequentially to remove the defect. The defect is closed with 6-0 prolene sutures and no dressing is applied.