Ear stapling is a procedure that borrows from the acupuncture concept that stimulating certain points on the body can alter the body's balance of energy. It involves placing a small surgical staple into the ear's inner cartilage to supposedly hit a pressure point that controls appetite and aids in weight loss, according to UAB Medicine. You may be tempted to try ear stapling to supplement diet and exercise, but keep in mind that it hasn't been proved effective and it may be dangerous.
Duration of Treatment
Whereas acupuncture needles aren't usually left in the ear, ear staples are typically left in for several months, according to the MayoClinic.com. Supporters of ear stapling claim that the body adjusts to the staple after a few months and that subsequent staples must be placed in a slightly different place on the ear to maintain effectiveness, according to UAB Medicine.
Claims vs. Evidence
According to supporters of ear stapling, placing a staple in the ear at the proper pressure point will aid in weight loss by suppressing cravings, according to UAB Medicine. Other suggested functions of ear stapling include curbing cigarette addiction and reducting acid reflux, migraines and hot flashes. Though some evidence suggests that ear acupuncture may help suppress appetite, ear stapling hasn't been proved effective for that purpose, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Regulation
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn't approved ear stapling for any purpose. Regulation of ear stapling is limited and varies by state. Because ear stapling practice isn't held to high standards in every state, someone may be able to perform the procedure after attending only a day-long training seminar and buying the appropriate staple gun, according to UAB Medicine. This could lead to unsafe and unsanitary practices.
Health Risks
Because ear stapling may be performed by a poorly trained or even untrained practitioner in unsanitary conditions, you are at risk of serious infection if you get your ears stapled, according to the MayoClinic.com. Additionally, puncturing the ear cartilage -- regardless of its underlying purpose -- may ultimately lead to permanent disfigurement of the ear.
Considerations
Talk to a physician trained in acupuncture techniques and let her explain all the risks before you decide to pursue ear stapling. Also, talk to your ear stapling practitioner about his training, experience and sanitary practices and ask for references before you begin. Your practitioner should wear surgical gloves, use sterilized surgical staples, sterilize the equipment after he uses it and give you tips on keeping your stapled area clean and disinfected, according to UAB Medicine.
