How to Create Elf Ears Through Body Modification

James the Elf

For those that wish to look more like the mythical elf or a Vulcan from Star Trek on a permanent basis there is a procedure called ear pointing. In a process originated by body modification artist Steve Haworth, the ear is carefully cut then sutured to reshape the cartilage. After healing, the ear will look pointed at the top edge.

Things You'll Need

• Scalpel
• Gauze
• Needle and suture thread
• Steri-Strips
• Latex gloves
• Alcohol wipes
• Non-toxic marking pen
• Cotton
• Saline solution

Instructions

1. Put on latex gloves, then clean both ears thoroughly with an alcohol wipe.

2. Mark the top edge of the ear for where the desired point will be and a line inward for the angle of the point, taking into account the size and shape of the person's ear. Repeat on the other ear, making sure both ears are as similar and symmetric as possible. Pinch each ear into a point to estimate how much cartilage to remove and mark each ear accordingly.

3. Carefully cut the ear as marked with the scalpel, removing a wedge-shaped slice of cartilage and skin. Use the gauze to absorb blood.

4. Use the needle and suture thread to stitch the the gap at the top of the ear together, creating a point. Wrap a Steri-Strip around the tip of the ear to stabilize and reinforce the suture.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the other ear.

6. 

   Clean the incision area at least twice a day with saline solution, rinsing thoroughly. Soak cotton pads with saline solution and keep in a plastic baggies for cleaning while away from home.

7. Remove the stitches and Steri-Strip in about a week. Wrap tip of ear with a new Steri-Strip to be worn for an additional week.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't attempt this procedure on yourself. This is a surgical procedure that should only be performed by a trained professional.

References

• Russ Foxx
• Body-Mod: Elf Ears via Instructables