Sounds too good to be true. Right? But, this weight-loss technique can actually allow you to sit down to dine with your family and enjoy the same foods as everyone else. Ear stapling is similar to ear piercing but is not permanent and may cause a little more pain. It is done by stapling a small piece of stainless steel into the inner cartilage of each ear. The staple is left in place for a few months, which stimulates two acupuncture points in the ear that control appetite. This technique is also similar to auricular acupuncture in which fine needles are used to stimulate appetite controlling pressure points in the ear. Hence, the main concept behind this form of body piercing is that if acupuncture treatment, which lasts for 20 - 30 minutes, can suppress the appetite to a large extent, then a full-time treatment or stimulation of those pressure points can bring even better results.

Working of this Technique

Ear stapling is not exactly acupuncture, rather it is a nontraditional treatment for reducing body mass, which is merely based on one aspect of acupuncture approach. However, if done properly, the ear staple penetrates the acupuncture point in the ear, where it releases endorphins that suppress cravings and promote relaxation. These endorphins send signals to the brain when the stomach is full, which in turn curbs the appetite and thirst. Also, it is known to relieve stress and tension that leads to overeating in many people. For some people, this technique works so well that they don't feel hungry at all, and in such a scenario, they need to have it removed. While for others, it gradually decreases their appetite and cravings.

Cost Incurred

Compared to many other weight-loss programs, ear stapling is quite reasonable. Prices usually vary from nearly USD 55 for one ear to USD 70 for two ears. Generally, professionals recommend that one should get both the ears stapled, as it is believed that everyone has one ear that works better than the other with this procedure. However, till now no one has been able to figure out as to which ear works better. Therefore, having both the ears stapled eliminates the risk of selecting the wrong ear, which apparently improves the chances of this procedure to work. Besides this, getting both the ears stapled also balances your equilibrium.

Does Ear Stapling really Work?

Till now, no authentic scientific research has been done to certify that this form of body piercing is effective for body mass reduction. However, most professionals claim that 90% of their clients have been successful in losing at least a few kilos. Moreover, they say that women can shed up to 2 - 4 pounds per week, and men can lose between 4 - 10 pounds per week. But, as per the general investigations made, most people who got their ears stapled did lose some weight while others who hadn't lost any weight, even after a week, had got their staple repositioned.

Certain Risks Involved

This procedure does pose a serious risk of infection. It can be very dangerous, especially if done under unsanitary conditions or by an untrained practitioner. In fact, puncturing the ear cartilage can cause a serious ear infection, which can eventually lead to permanent disfigurement, as this part of the ear doesn't heal properly after an injury. Hence, after getting the ears stapled, it is important to keep them clean and dry. Also, one should not touch the staples with fingers and should follow the aftercare instructions properly.

Due to lack of actual scientific studies and evidence, it is difficult to say whether ear stapling for body mass reduction is helpful or not. However, medical studies suggest that any weight-loss program in combination with acupuncture treatments, with the inclusion of a balanced diet and exercise, is a more effective and safe way to lose weight and remain healthy in the long run.
