Ear lobe repair
Specialist surgical repair of torn, stretched, or split earlobes - under local anaesthetic, with natural cosmetic results and guidance on re-piercing.
Specialist service: This treatment is provided by Ms. Soudeh Chegini, Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, who practises on-site at New Forest Family Dental.
About the procedure
Restoring your earlobes.
Torn or stretched earlobes are a very common problem - caused by heavy earrings, accidental earring pulls, gauging, or simply the gradual elongation of the piercing hole over time. While not a medical emergency, a damaged earlobe can be cosmetically distressing and prevent you from wearing earrings comfortably.
Earlobe repair is a quick, simple procedure performed under local anaesthetic. The edges of the tear are carefully prepared and sutured in layers to achieve a strong, natural-looking result. Most patients are back to normal activities within one to two days.
Ms. Chegini performs earlobe repair with attention to natural contour restoration and minimal scarring, with clear advice on how to safely re-pierce the lobe once healing is complete.
Why choose us
Expert repair, natural result.
Specialist repair technique
Ms. Chegini uses careful surgical technique to achieve a natural-looking repair - restoring the earlobe's shape and appearance.
Minimal scarring
Incisions are planned to minimise visible scarring. Earlobe tissue heals well, and most patients are very pleased with the cosmetic result.
Quick procedure
Earlobe repair is a brief procedure taking 20 to 30 minutes under local anaesthetic. You can go home immediately afterwards.
Local anaesthetic only
No general anaesthetic is needed. The earlobe is numbed thoroughly, making the procedure comfortable and straightforward.
Re-piercing guidance
We advise on when it is safe to re-pierce the repaired earlobe - typically six to eight weeks after surgery and away from the scar line.
Thorough aftercare
Written wound care instructions are provided. A review appointment checks healing and suture removal at five to seven days.
Your procedure
From consultation to restored earlobe.
- 1
Consultation
Ms. Chegini assesses the defect - its type, extent, and skin quality - and discusses the best repair technique for your individual earlobe.
- 2
Consent
The procedure, what to expect, aftercare requirements, and the re-piercing timeline are fully explained before consent is obtained.
- 3
Local anaesthetic
The earlobe is numbed with local anaesthetic. The injection takes a few seconds and the procedure itself is comfortable.
- 4
Repair procedure
The edges of the tear are freshened and sutured in layers to achieve a strong, natural repair with minimal scarring.
- 5
Wound care
Written aftercare instructions are provided. The wound is kept clean and dry. A small dressing may be applied.
- 6
Suture removal and review
Sutures are removed at five to seven days. We confirm the repair has healed well and advise on re-piercing timing.
Who is it for?
Common earlobe problems we repair.
- Torn earlobes from earring pull or trauma
- Stretched or gauged earlobes
- Completely split earlobes (bifid earlobes)
- Elongated piercing holes
- Keloid formation from ear piercing
- Cosmetic correction of asymmetric earlobes
Ready to restore your earlobes?
Book a specialist consultation
Earlobe repair is a quick, comfortable procedure with excellent results. Book a consultation with Ms. Chegini today.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions.
When can I re-pierce my ear after repair?
We recommend waiting at least six to eight weeks after surgery for the repair to fully heal before re-piercing. The new piercing should be placed through unscarred tissue - typically slightly above or below the original site. We'll advise specifically at your review appointment.
Will there be a visible scar?
Earlobe tissue heals very well, and scars typically become inconspicuous over the first few months. With good wound care and sun protection, most patients are very satisfied with the cosmetic result.
Is the procedure painful?
The local anaesthetic injection takes a few seconds. Once numb, the procedure is completely painless. Most patients find the procedure entirely manageable.
How long does the procedure take?
Most earlobe repairs take 20 to 30 minutes per ear. You can leave immediately after the procedure and resume normal activities within a day or two.
Can both earlobes be repaired at the same time?
Yes. Both earlobes can be repaired in the same appointment if needed, which is convenient and reduces overall recovery time.
Ready to meet your new dental team?
Same-day appointments available · Denplan members welcome