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Pierced ears are at risk for stretching, tearing, and scarring from the weight and size of earrings. Tears are often split and highly visible. Earlobe repair is a relatively quick, in-office procedure to correct these problems. Techniques used in this procedure actually strengthen the area to help prevent recurrence of the damage.

What is earlobe repair?

Earlobe repair is a simple procedure to repair stretched, split, or damaged earlobes. It is typically performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.

Earlobe Repair NYC

Why choose Dr. Smith?

Dr. Smith’s unparalleled training produces superlative results. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has completed fellowships in both aesthetic plastic surgery and craniofacial surgery.

Dr. Smith takes all the time he needs to assess his approach and build a real doctor-patient relationship with you. He is a conservative surgeon who does not jump into surgery.

You can expect to receive the highest level of care and service at the practice of Dr. Darren Smith. We provide a comfortable, friendly environment, advanced safety protocols, personalized aftercare, and exceptional results.

What can I expect with earlobe repair?

Earlobe repair is a relatively simple, out-patient, surgical procedure that takes between 15 and 30 minutes to perform. Dr. Smith excises the healed skin on the inside of the torn earlobe and sutures the fresh edges together. Special techniques are used to avoid notching on the earlobe. The ears can be re-pierced in approximately one month.

Earlobe Repair NYC

Earlobe Repair FAQ

What are the most common reasons to have earlobe repair?

The most common earlobe deformities are split earlobes, elongated earlobes, and enlarged piercing holes. Split earlobes and enlarged piercing holes are caused by trauma or heavy earings. Elongated earlobes may result from use of heavy earrings, or they may simply occur with aging.

What causes split earlobes?

Most split earlobes are caused by piercings or trauma related to piercings. They may also be caused by other types of trauma.

Are dissolvable sutures used for earlobe repair?

In many cases in which incisions are made behind the ear, dissolvable sutures are used. However, permanent sutures are typically placed in more visible areas.

Will I have a scar?

Every procedure that involves an incision will leave some type of scar. Scars left by earlobe repair surgery are well camouflaged and generally very hard to see.

How safe is earlobe repair?

Every surgical procedure carries some risks. That said, earlobe repair is a safe operation. The most common complications involve issues related to healing, such as notching where the skin meets, infection, or scarring. Revisions can always be made.

Will I be able to drive home after the procedure?

When earlobe repair is performed under local anesthesia, you should be fine to drive home after the procedure.

Should I avoid certain medications before surgery?

Earlobe repair is a surface operation with no risk to major blood vessels or nerves. However, Dr. Smith may instruct you to stop taking certain medications before your surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.


  • Earlobe Repair NYC
  • Earlobe Repair NYC
  • Earlobe Repair NYC

All photos are of models except before and after images.

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