Around young children take the earrings out before the damage occurs. Young children grab jewelry and pull. Larger loops and bigger items are more easily snagged by their little hands. Small posts are less likely targets but can still cause damage. Large or heavy items will gradually elongate the hole and eventually will tear through the lobe.
Larger masses have more momentum and damage more easily happens during activity.
If you cannot live without your heavy jewelry, be careful about quick movements. Lighter smaller adornments are safer. Most ear holes gradually enlarge over time. The final tear is usually just through a tiny piece of tissue at the bottom of the lobe. If only the bottom is actually torn, immediate repair will not take care of the skin covered slot.