Torn earlobes – also known as split earlobes – are one of the most common types of ear injury. What causes torn earlobes? It used to be believed that trauma or heavy earrings were the main cause of torn earlobes. Indeed, trauma (such as contact sports) can cause such injuries. However, in a study conducted on 25 patients, it occurred that heavy earrings may not be such an important factor as previously thought. The study revealed that heavy earrings usually just lead to stretched earlobes, not torn earlobes. It may be that an allergic reaction to the metal earring / piercing is the real underlying cause of torn earlobes. How to treat torn earlobes? Are there any non-surgical treatment options for a torn earlobe? Unfortunately not. Surgery is almost always required – this is known as an ‘earlobe repair’. The good news is that earlobe repairs can be done under local anesthetic and the procedure usually takes no longer than 15 minutes.