Ask Mary

Ear stapling is a Westernized form of acupuncture, where surgical staples are placed in the ear cartilage and left in place for several months.  Its effectiveness has not been proved and it carries the risk of serious infection.  Traditional acupuncture uses fine needles on the outer ear to stimulate acupuncture points that correspond to locations in the body.  That type of acupuncture has effectively treated anxiety, pain and addictions, and has diminished the appetite in a few small studies.  If you do opt for ear stapling, find a qualified acupuncturist and, for weight loss, expect to follow a low calorie diet as well.