The earlobe contains a large blood supply with many nerve endings.
For some, the earlobes are an erogenous zone.
Genetics largely determine whether your earlobes are attached to your face or dangle freely.
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Earlobes are not thought to serve any biological purpose.
This article looks at the anatomy and function of the earlobes.
It also describes different conditions that can affect the earlobes and ways to prevent or treat them.
Overlying these tissues is a protective layer of skin, called theepidermis.
Genetics plays a role in determining the size and shape of the earlobe.
Others still fall halfway between the (referred to as a “partially attached earlobe”).
Free earlobes are more common than attached earlobes.
A more recent, large-scale study identified six genetic variants associated with earlobe attachment.
Some older studies have reported that ear circumference increases by an average of 0.51 millimeters per year.
It is attached to three interconnected ridges of cartilage that make up the external framework of the ear.
What Does the Earlobe Do?
Earlobes do not serve a known biological function.
The large blood supply in the earlobes may contribute to keeping the ear warm.
In many cultures, the earlobe is adorned for cosmetic purposes.
Congenital birth defects, injuries, and infections of the earlobe can often be corrected and treated.
Ear molding is most effective in newborns in the first couple of weeks of life.
All of the methods are procedures that can be done in a doctors office.
Cysts that are painful and persistent may require drainage.
Earlobe tears may require surgery to repair.
How to Keep the Earlobes Healthy
The earlobes generally need little care to keep them healthy.
Failure to properly care for piercings is another major concern.
The lobes may be attached, partially attached, or free from the skin of the face.
They can vary in shape in size from one person to the next.
Earlobes serve no functional purpose but are frequently used for body adornments such as piercings.
Earlobes are vulnerable to infection, irritation, injuries, sun damage, frostbite, and allergic reactions.
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