Ear Lobe Repair

Surgical and Nonsurgical Earlobe Repair in Perth

Earlobes are delicate structures prone to stretching, tearing and drooping. The most common cause of earlobe damage is wearing heavy earrings that gradually lengthen the piercing hole. Over time, this can lead to tearing and may even eventually split the lobe in half. Earlobe tears may also occur when the piercing site is placed too low to begin with.

Many people stretch their earlobes intentionally through the use of progressively larger piercings, a form of body modification known as “gauging.” Whether the concern is deliberate stretching or accidental damage, OLA Aesthetics offers both nonsurgical and surgical options to restore the appearance of your earlobes.

Our nonsurgical earlobe repair treatments are quick and minimally invasive, and there is little to no downtime required after the procedure. We also offer surgical earlobe repair for more severe cases. Our team of experienced doctors can assess your individual needs and recommend a treatment option for you.

A Note From Dr Aleks

As a doctor, I have seen earlobes endure their share of life's unexpected ups and downs. The soft tissue of our earlobes lacks the strength and structure of the cartilage found elsewhere in our ears, making them more likely to bear battle scars from an injury or simple wear-and-tear.

Piercings accent an outfit beautifully, but some heavier statement earrings overstretch this fragile tissue over time. Trauma may occur in the form of an earring caught on a piece of clothing, pulled by a curious child or a loved one’s enthusiastic embrace, even tugged by an animal's excited pawing. Our earlobes are also subject to the same internal loss of volume and external pull of gravity that all of our tissues are as we age. Once stretched past a certain limit, earlobes cannot self-repair.

Surgical Summary

Anaesthetic: Local

Procedure Time:  30-60 minutes

Downtime: Minimal

Risks: See below

Full Results: 1-2 months

Longevity: Permanent

Non Surgical Summary

Anaesthetic: None

Procedure Time:  10-15 minutes

Downtime: None

Risks: See below

Full Results: 1-2 weeks

Longevity: 6-18 months

What Is Earlobe Repair Surgery?

Earlobe repair surgery is a procedure under local anaesthetics that tightens and reconstructs lobes that have been damaged. During this outpatient procedure, the doctor trims away irregular edges before bringing the torn earlobe back together, stitching the skin carefully to reconnect the tissue. Once complete, the earlobe regains its natural contours and a more symmetrical appearance.

Using surgical techniques, OLA Aesthetics can treat:

  • Fully torn earlobes

  • Overly stretched piercings

  • Gauged ears

  • Some congenital earlobe deformities

Earlobe repair surgery is not to be confused with otoplasty, which is a type of surgery used to correct large, protruding or misshapen ears.

What Is Nonsurgical Earlobe Repair?

In some cases, earlobes can be restored without surgery. This nonsurgical approach utilises volume replacement products to plump up the deflated ear lobes that have lost elasticity and volume over time, helping to reduce any stretched ear lobe appearance. Plumping up the earlobe can also soften creases and counteract age-related volume loss.

Nonsurgical earlobe repair and rejuvenation is suitable for:

  • Mild overstretching of piercing hole

  • Drooping or elongation

  • Surface creases and wrinkles

  • Uneven edges or asymmetry

While not permanent, results typically last six months or more. Regular touch-up treatments can sustain your look.

The OLA Experience

Consultation

The OLA consultation experience is designed to be thorough, informative and reassuring. In a relaxed one-on-one setting, you’ll discuss your concerns and objectives so your doctor can understand your goals before forming an individualised treatment plan.

Preparation

Both methods of earlobe repair require minimal preparation. To reduce risks of bleeding or bruising, your doctor may advise avoiding blood thinning medications, supplements and alcohol for one to two weeks pre-procedure. Apart from these precautions, there is little else required in terms of physical preparation.

Treatment

Surgical repairs are performed under local anaesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The procedure is typically completed in 30 to 60 minutes. Nonsurgical repairs can be done in just 10 to 15 minutes and do not require anaesthesia. Post-treatment, our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions.

"Most of us don’t spend a lot of time thinking about our ears. But, even though they are a small part of our body, they do play a significant role in our appearance and how we express ourselves through adornments like earrings and glasses. For these reasons, restoring or enhancing the earlobe’s shape can have a subtle yet powerful impact.”

–Dr. Aleks

What Is the Average Downtime and Recovery?

Recovery times vary slightly depending on the repair approach.

With surgical earlobe repair, stitches are removed seven days post-procedure. You may experience bruising, swelling, numbness or tingling in the repaired lobe, which generally subsides within two weeks. By one to two months, your earlobes will be fully healed with subtle, fading scars.

With nonsurgical earlobe repair, there is no required downtime. You may experience some minor swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising. Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated earlobeand avoid intense heat (such as hot showers or saunas) for 24 hours.

What Results Can I Expect From Earlobe Repair?

The initial results from surgical earlobe repair are noticeable as soon as the procedure is completed. Once the healing process is underway, and especially after the stitches are removed, you will see a marked improvement in the shape and integrity of the earlobe. The results are permanent.

If you opt for nonsurgical restoration, the effect is immediately visible. The results can be long-lasting (six months or more), but they are not permanent. Touch-up treatments once or twice a year can sustain your results long-term.

Ear Lobe Repair FAQ

Is earlobe repair painful?

Nonsurgical rejuvenation of earlobes can be done with no anaesthesia. You might feel a slight pinch or pressure, but it is usually well-tolerated and over quickly. Surgical repair follows local anaesthetic injections to numb the treatment area. This means you should feel minimal to no pain during the procedure itself.

What are the risks of earlobe repair?

Like all medical treatments, earlobe repair carries certain risks, including:

  • Infection

  • Over-correction

  • Inadequate correction

  • Swelling and discomfort

  • Delayed healing and unfavourable scarring

  • Prolonged numbness

  • Temporary skin discolouration in the incision lines

  • Nodules or necrosis (nonsurgical approach)

Our team takes all necessary precautions to mitigate these risks. Should any concerns arise post-treatment, our staff is on hand to provide personalised care and guidance.

Is it possible for a split earlobe to repair itself?

Some mild tears may heal on their own over time. However, the result is often cosmetically unsatisfying. The larger the tear, the less likely it is to heal well without surgical intervention. Allowing a damaged earlobe to heal on its own can result in scars that make it difficult to repierce the ear.

Can my ears be repierced after earlobe repair?

Yes, repiercing ears after surgical lobe repair is often possible. Your earlobe will be fully healed after several weeks. You may have your ears re-pierced if you desire, but we advise waiting at least six weeks to ensure full healing has been achieved before piercing the lobe again.

If you intend to re-pierce your ears, especially over scar tissue, discuss your plans with our team. Our doctors can guide you on the best approach to minimise issues and maintain the integrity of your earlobes.

What is the pricing for earlobe repair?

Nonsurgical earlobe repair starts at $1000. For the pricing of surgical earlobe repair, please consult with the doctor.

Could Earlobe Repair Be Right for Me?

Almost anyone with a stretched or torn earlobe can be a candidate for earlobe repair. The most common reasons to consider an earlobe repair procedure include:

  • The repetitive wearing of heavy earrings has caused the lobe to stretch or tear

  • An earring was partially or completely ripped through the lobe

  • The desire to return to a more natural look after gauging

  • Closure of earlobe piercings

The best way to determine your suitability for earlobe repair is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced doctors. During this consultation, we will evaluate the condition of your earlobes and recommend the treatment approach that we believe aligns best with your needs.

"As your trusted aesthetic physician, my role is to guide you through making informed and comfortable choices. Dr Indi and I take a collaborative approach in our consultations, where we work together with you to explore the possibilities and find a balance between your goals and what's medically sound.”

–Dr. Aleks

Request Your Private Consultation at OLA Aesthetics

From the moment you step into OLA Aesthetics, you'll experience a level of professionalism and attentiveness that sets us apart. Our founders, Dr Aleksandra Kaddour and Dr Indi Wijegoonewardene, infuse every patient interaction with professionalism, compassion and clinical excellence.

If you have stretched or damaged earlobes and are interested in earlobe repair in Perth, please give us a call on (08) 6114 0533 or book now. You have options, and our team will be happy to discuss them with you.