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Ear Punctures for Weight Loss

Ear puncturing, or ear stapling, is a method for weight loss that utilizes pressure points in the human ear and acupuncture techniques. By puncturing the ear with several tiny, medical-grade staples, the ear acupuncturist is said to activate pressure points that increase the body's metabolism and suppress appetite.

  1. The Procedure

    • During the procedure, the acupuncturist will carefully insert the small stainless-steel staples into pressure points that signal the stomach to think that it is full. This action is said to reduce or even eliminate food cravings and allow the dieter to more easily stick to a sensible diet in order to lose weight effectively.

      Some acupuncturists will use the staples only on one ear, while others routinely staple both ears. Some believe that one ear is more effective than the other and that the pressure points on that ear are stronger, but there is no way for the acupuncturist to decipher which is which.

      As of 2009, the procedure generally costs less than $100.

    What It Feels Like

    • The staples may sting slightly upon insertion, but for the most part, the procedure is generally comfortable. Of course, each patient feels the sensation differently, so you may experience something different.The staples stay in place for up to six months, and can be moved slightly by the patient so the body does not become "immune" to them over time.

      It is critical that the ear be meticulously kept clean and dry to prevent infections where the staples are inserted. If an infection is suspected, the staples may need to be removed. Signs of infection include redness or warmth of the ear, pain and/or drainage of pus from the staple insertion sites. If you experience any of these symptoms seek medical help.

    Warnings and Considerations

    • Risks include irreparable damage to the cartilage in the ear and the possibility of the staples inadvertently falling out and entering the ear canal and damaging the tympanic membrane (ear drum) or other inner-ear structures. Even in some cases where the patient keeps the area clean and dry, infection can develop.

      When choosing a stapler, be sure to question the refund policy (if the staples should become loose or fall out); how infections are handled and what kind of licensing the stapler possesses. The stapling should be done in a sterile environment in a professional setting.

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