‘Ear’nest, in lobe love!

Like most body parts, ear lobes and the external areas of the ear are subject to ageing.  From an aesthetic view,  ears frame the face. Which means, droopy ears can be embarrassing. To combat ageing and revive a youthful and fuller appearance, Eartox is performed. Eartox is termed as the newest trend in the arena of non-surgical face aesthetics.  Over time, ears develop fine lines and wrinkles in the root of the helix, tragus, lobes, and antitragus.

The procedure is similar to most fill-up treatments. Dermal fillers like Juvederm, which contain hyaluronic acid are also called as injectable gels. Dermal fillers are injected directly into the aged part of the external ear and earlobes, using tiny gauge needle – in order to conceal wrinkles and give the lobe back with volume. Botox may be employed to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. But, that entirely depends upon the severity of the issue.  The ultimate goal for this improved usability is to allow more patients to enjoy better external ears appearance.

The benefits of fillers are aplenty:

Injecting fillers in the lobes helps minimise the appearance of ear piercing holes. This is lunchtime treatment of sorts, as a session does not take more than 15 minutes!

According to American Academy of Facial Aesthetics, the cosmetic effect of dermal fillers in the external ear lasts up to 8 to 12 months. Since there’s lesser movement in the ears, the results may last longer too. Eartox is an alternative for those not wanting to go under the knife.

There is no recovery time. Regular exercise and activities can be resumed immediately. To decrease the discomfort, a numbing cream will be applied before the injections.  Temporary effects like redness and swelling will diminishes each and every minute after the injection. Post care treatment is simple.  Apply a dermatologically approved antimicrobial cream for two to four days. Individuals daunted by the appearance of their aged ears can easily have them plumped back to their former glory.  Eartox is most commonly done by individuals who are over the age of 40. However, the decision to sign up for a treatment is open to anyone above the age of 18.  Candidates must have a history of weighing down their ears with heavy earrings that cause the lobes to stretch and sag. Also, people as a prophylactic measures Eartox can be done prior to the show of ageing external ears. Eartox is also included in the male face aesthetics.

—The writer is Bengaluru-based doctor, BDS