Ear Stapling for Weight Loss: Does it Work?

A-Z Weight Loss: Ear Stapling

Ear stapling is similar to body piercing only it is not permanent. Ear stapling is also similar to acupuncture as it used on pressure points and is said to promise weight loss. When the ear is stapled, a small surgical steel 'staple' is used to pierce the inner ear (instead of the lobe). The location of the staple is a pressure point believed to control appetite. Ear staples look very much like earrings placed on the ear near the ear canal. Visually it can be quite attractive. So, if the procedure does not work to make you lose weight, at least you have a fashion statement.

How Does Ear Stapling Help Weight Loss?

Much like acupuncture, where sterilized needles are placed on specific acu-points for up to a half hour, in ear stapling, a semi permanent staple is placed where it will release endorphins that suppress cravings, and promote relaxation. Many people believe this increases how much weight a person can lose when added to dieting.

Is there any proof that ear stapling works?

Ear stapling is very new to the United States and seldom regulated, so in many states, anyone can perform the procedure. Tracking of successes are shaky at best. There is no hard evidence that ear stapling increases weight loss.

Are There any Problems with Ear Stapling?

Ear stapling can be very dangerous. Ear staples are put in the cartilage of the ear where there is very little blood flow. This part of the ear does not heal well after injury. Therefore least 20% of people who have the procedure done get infections. These infections can cause the ear to be deformed, or can spread through the body making the person very ill.

What are the alternatives to ear stapling?

Instead of ear stapling, doctors recommend following a healthy balanced diet. In addition to ear stapling, acupuncture may promote increased weight loss. According to ClevelandClinic.org, Studies have shown that with a weight loss program that includes a combination of acupuncture treatments with diet and exercise, patients can expect lose an average of 10 to 20 pounds more than with diet and exercise alone over a period of a year.