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Elfing - Procedures, Risks, and Controversies

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Cosmetic surgery, known as "elfing" or "ear-pointing," alters the ears to resemble those of elves or vulcans.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. A.k. Tiwari

Published At November 24, 2023
Reviewed AtNovember 24, 2023

What Is Elfing?

Elf ear surgery is a special technique that involves reshaping the ear's appearance and shape to mimic those of mythical creatures like elves. Although prominent ears were once considered a sign of good luck in Chinese culture, they are now altered to create a thinner face and a more appealing appearance. Despite being popular among some people, elf ear surgery has prompted debates and concerns among social media users and medical professionals. A new trend includes people getting risky plastic surgery to get unique ears that resemble mythological animals from fantasy literature. Others suggest that the trend is motivated by social anxieties about appearance, despite some people's claims that elf ears make their faces look thinner and more appealing.

How Does This Procedure Attain Popularity Among People?

Elven ears with protruding points have long been considered an unpleasant aesthetic defect. But recently, young people have been standing up for plastic surgery to have these distinctive ear shapes. People's reasons for adopting this trend vary, but many claim that elf ears improve their physical appearance and give individuals a more youthful aspect. Chinese celebrities and social media influencers have greatly helped the effort. Young people, especially those born after 2000, are curious about this procedure due to their endorsements. Due to the increased demand for elf ear surgery, some cosmetic surgeons now execute up to six daily procedures.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Elfing?

Candidates for this procedure should be at least five years old when the auricle has grown to 90 percent of its adult size. The individual should also be in generally good health, as underlying conditions can increase the risk of complications or slow the healing process, and the individual should not smoke, as smoking reduces blood flow to the area and slows the healing process.

What Are the Procedures Involved in Elfing?

Hyaluronic acid, a common component in dermal fillers, is often injected into the ears during the treatment to create the appearance of elf ears. A different method involves inserting a piece of cartilage behind the ear to support it forward, making the ears more noticeable from the front of the face. Various techniques, such as elfing their ears, make individuals resemble elves or Vulcans, including removing a small wedge-shaped piece of skin off the top of the ear and stitching the edges together. After healing, there will be a tiny scar behind the ear. However, this scar is hardly evident because of its placement in the ear's natural crease. Typically, Steve Haworth takes credit for developing this method. The individual's helix was first folded and cut into the desired shape. It was then stitched together to give it a pointed appearance. Samppa Von Cyborg has invented a new technique that makes the pointed ears appear much more natural.

How Does Recovery Happen After This Procedure?

Each patient's recovery process is unique and progresses in stages. Depending on the severity of their conditions, individuals may stay for one or two nights. Immediately after surgery, a big bandage will be put on the head to encourage optimum healing and molding. During the first few days, it is normal for the ears to throb or hurt, but the surgeon can prescribe drugs to reduce any discomfort. To prevent placing pressure on the ears, it is advised to sleep on elevated pillows for seven or more days straight and avoid sleeping on the side.

What Are the Disadvantages of Elfing?

While having elf ears removed could seem like a simple and quick solution to improve one's appearance, there are serious risks and issues involved. As with any surgical procedure, there may be some side effects. Soreness, itching, redness, swelling, bruising, and tingling or numbness are typical adverse effects. A common problem that can be difficult to manage adequately is an infection around the ear. Hyaluronic acid injections into blood vessels can also result in a potentially lethal embolism. Hyaluronic acid injections include risks and stress the need for caution when choosing this procedure. The risks and issues that could arise from elf ear surgery should not be managed lightly.

What Are the Controversies Associated With Elfing?

Elf ears are becoming increasingly popular, but there has also been a lot of opposition from social media users and medical specialists. Numerous critics argue that these body changes do not improve appearance and might even cause regret in the future. Some believe people may eventually try to undo the surgery, comparing the elf ear trend to other transient cosmetic trends. Medical specialists have expressed concerns over the hazards and issues that could arise from elf ear surgery. One of the main risks is ear infections, which can be difficult to treat. Hyaluronic acid injections into blood vessels can also result in a potentially lethal embolism. These risks emphasize the importance of considering the long-term effects before undergoing such a cosmetic procedure.

Conclusion

Elf ear surgery is a growing trend that has caught the interest of people interested in beauty and has driven debates among social media users and medical professionals. While some people have their ears altered to create a thinner face and a more appealing appearance, others are cautious of beauty standards and the potential risks. Significant difficulties arise during elf ear surgery, such as the possibility of infection and embolism. Promoting a balanced perspective on beauty is essential, emphasizing long-term well-being above fashion, as the trend keeps attracting the younger generation. Making informed decisions about cosmetic operations and prioritizing one's well-being is still crucial as the trend develops.

Dr. A.K. Tiwari
Dr. A.K. Tiwari

plastic surgery-reconstructive and cosmetic surgery

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plastic surgerycosmetic ear surgery
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