Rip and Tear repair on suede & leathers is relatively easy. Use a rubber cement type glue to attach a back patch and then lay down the torn skins onto the back patch. I am the owner of Midwest Leather Cleaners and Repair in Billings MT we patch quite a few tears every week. Sewing a hole closed is necessary some times but we avoid it as the results tend to look at little Frankenstein-ish.
Replacing the entire panel is the best repair however is can also be costly.
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix general clothing.