When diets and exercise programs don't seem to help you lose weight, alternative treatments can be tempting. Scientific evidence supports some alternative weight-loss treatments, such as acupuncture, while others, such as ear stapling, are based on theory. Because ear stapling carries risks, consult your health care provider about whether or not this treatment is right for you.
The Procedure
Practitioners of ear stapling use a specialized staple gun to place a steel surgical staple in the ear cartilage at a pressure point said to control the appetite. The process feels similar to having your ear pierced, according to experts from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The staple remains for 2 to 3 months. After this time, it must be professionally removed and replaced in a slightly different location for the appetite controlling effects to continue.
Origin
The basis of ear stapling is Chinese auricular acupuncture, a treatment in which an acupuncturist inserts fine needles into pressure points in the ear. According to acupuncture theory, these pressure points influence the mouth, stomach, endocrine system and other organs and systems connected with eating and weight maintenance. Acupuncture needles remain in place for several minutes to a week, a significantly shorter time than ear staples.
Proposed Benefits
Proponents of ear stapling claim the procedure reduces appetite, helping you eat less and lose weight. Ear stapling may also help you reduce cigarette cravings as well as lessen hot flashes, heart burn and migraines, proponents further suggest. Auricular acupuncture suppresses appetite satiety center in the hypothalamus and improving stomach muscle tone. Also increases endorphin and dopamine production, potentially controlling overeating due to stress and depression, states research published in the "International Journal of Neuroscience" in 2006. Conversely, ear stapling, although based on acupuncture, has never been proven effective for appetite control or weight loss.
Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved ear stapling and practice of the procedure lacks regulation and oversight, which makes it possible for poorly trained practitioners to perform the procedure in unsanitary conditions. Because of this, not only might you see no benefits from ear stapling, you may end up with added health problems. The puncture wound may become infected and cartilage infections are particularly difficult to treat, warns Dr. Tanya Edwards from the Cleveland Clinic. Ear deformities and other complications are also possible.
Finding a Practitioner
If you choose to try ear stapling for weight loss, interview the practitioner about her medical training and experience performing the procedure. Ask for references and practitioner's rate of success. Note conditions in the practitioner's clinic. Due to high risk of infection, practitioners should sterilize all equipment, wear surgical gloves and follow other sanitation procedures appropriate for minor surgery.
References
- University of Alabama at Birmingham: Ear Stapling for Weight loss: Does it Work?
- MayoClinic.com: Ear Stapling for Weight Loss: Does it Work?
- Acupuncture and Massage College: Acupuncture Weight Loss
- "International Journal of Neuroscience;" The Treatment Of Obesity By Acupuncture; Cabýoglu, M. et al.; 2006
- Southern Methodist University: Update: The Weight Loss Ear Staple
- Cleveland Clinic: Get the Staple Remover
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