Ear stapling: a risky and unproven procedure for appetite suppression and weight loss
Winter, L.K.; Spiegel, J.H.
Ear Nose and Throat Journal 89(1): E20-E22
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1942-7522 PMID: 20155684 Document Number: 645228
In an effort to achieve weight loss, many people are pursuing alternative medical interventions. Widely available as a variant of acupuncture, ear stapling (in which a surgical staple is placed in the conchal bowl of the ear) is reported by practitioners to decrease the appetite and induce weight loss. This practice lacks proven efficacy and has a significant risk of infection and deformity. We report a series of 3 patients who developed complications from ear stapling and present this article to describe the practice so that physicians will be prepared when encountering a staple in the ear.