Torn Earlobe Repair

A torn earlobe can be caused by a traumatic incident or by wearing heavy earrings. A tear can initially be painful before becoming a cosmetic reminder of the injury to your ear, keeping you from feeling like your best version of yourself. Due to aging and gravity, a torn earlobe can worsen over time with piercing holes widening. No matter the cause of your torn earlobe, Dr. Michele Green in NYC can perform an earlobe repair surgery to restore the appearance of your earlobes and your self-esteem. When scheduling an earlobe repair procedure, it is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City to have the best cosmetic results.

The procedure for a torn earlobe repair is straightforward and effective. Dr. Green will numb the torn earlobe and repair the tear with sutures while ensuring that patients interested in having their ears re-pierced can do so at her office in as little as two months. In addition to her ability to effectively suture torn earlobes, Dr. Green is an expert in all forms of earlobe rejuvenation. For patients experiencing sagging skin that prevents them from wearing heavier earrings, Dr. Green offers dermal fillers to boost collagen production and provide additional support to the skin. Scarring, as a result of facelift surgery or ear piercings, can also occur on the earlobe but can be ameliorated with the help of laser treatments, dermal fillers, or cortisone injections. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will assess the damage and area to determine the treatment, or series of treatments, that will help you achieve rejuvenated earlobes.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist who has been expertly treating some of the world’s most discerning men and women for more than 25 years. Frequently voted as one of the best dermatologists in New York City by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times, Dr. Green excels at both medical and cosmetic treatments, including earlobe repair surgery, dermal filler injections, laser treatments, and other therapies for facial rejuvenation and anti-aging. Dr. Green embraces a holistic philosophy to cosmetic dermatology, employing a “less-is-more” approach to create natural, radiant results. When you work with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side office, she will discuss your skin concerns to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your needs and aesthetic goals.

Before & After: Earlobe repair – 3 months

What causes a torn earlobe?

There are many potential causes of torn earlobes, though the most common are:

• Wearing heavy earrings for long durations— Patients with traditionally pierced ears risk damaging or tearing the earlobe with the overuse of heavy earrings, which can stretch the delicate, thin skin of the earlobe, making it more vulnerable to trauma.
• Accidentally catching or pulling an earring— Long earrings can get caught in a dress or other article of clothing or be pulled by a child or animal. Pulling on an ear can tear the piercing hole further or cause the earlobe to rip.
• Having multiple piercings close together— When multiple earrings are close together or too close to the bottom of the earlobe, a torn earlobe may occur.
• Intentional stretching of the earlobe—Over the years, it has become increasingly fashionable to practice gauging or stretching the earlobe with ear ornaments, such as “flesh tunnels” or “flesh plugs.”
• Collagen loss — As we age, our body produces less collagen, a protein essential for skin structure and firmness. Natural aging can result in earring holes becoming larger over time due to sagging or drooping earlobes.
• Sudden trauma or injury

Can you repair a torn earlobe?

Yes! While tearing the earlobe can be painful and traumatic, an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, can repair the torn earlobe with just a few sutures. Dr. Green uses the best cosmetic surgical techniques to repair your earlobe and rejuvenate your torn or sagging earlobes. With Dr. Green performing the suture, the repair is clean, and the wound generally heals into a small, fine scar. Additionally, three months following the treatment, patients can return to Dr. Green’s office to have the earlobe pierced again. Having Dr. Green perform the re-piercing ensures that the new piercing hole is the proper distance away from the repaired rip so as not to cause any further damage to the ear.

Who repairs a torn earlobe?

Selecting a skilled and experienced board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to execute your torn earlobe repair is essential. This will ensure that your earlobe repair surgery is done safely and that your cosmetic results are optimal. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist with over two decades of experience repairing torn earlobes. Dr. Michele Green regularly performs torn earlobe repair procedures in her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, and her artistic background, careful surgical repair, and patient adherence to proper post-procedure skin care produce superlative results. When you consult Dr. Green in her private New York City office, she will assess and repair your earlobe without downtime or adverse side effects. Additionally, patients are always welcome back to the office after recovery to have their earlobes pierced by Dr. Green.

How to fix a torn earlobe without surgery?

Unfortunately, there is no effective way to repair a torn earlobe without surgery. In her private Upper East Side office, Dr. Green can repair your earlobe tear through an in-office procedure in which the scarred area of the earlobe is removed, and fine sutures are used to suture the hole. A tear can occur for several reasons and vary in severity from a small tear due to frequently wearing heavy earrings to an acute event such as snagging an earring on clothing and tearing the lobe. While minor tears may be able to heal on their own, the potential for thick scar tissue is high if a healthcare professional does not do a suture. Failing to repair the tear properly may result in an inability to re-pierce the lobe and unsightly scarring. As such, an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, should perform the earlobe repair.

How to help the appearance of sagging earlobes with dermal fillers

The appearance of sagging earlobes can result from various factors. Earlobes can be stretched and begin to sag due to a tear or injury. Frequently wearing heavy earrings can stretch the skin and help gravity sag the earlobe down. Sleeping with earrings can stretch the skin due to tossing and turning the head. As we age, our skin also makes less collagen and elastin, two proteins vital for skin structure and elasticity, causing earlobes to sag.

Regardless of the cause of your sagging earlobes, Dr. Green can replace lost volume and restore skin sagging by injecting dermal fillers, such as Restylane and Juvederm, into the earlobes. Restylane and Juvederm are composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that contributes to the skin’s volume and hydration. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers effectively rejuvenate the earlobes, improve elasticity, and support the earlobes to hold earrings.

The dermal filler procedure for earlobe rejuvenation is quick and easy. A topical numbing cream will be applied to the area one hour before the appointment to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Once at the office, the cream will be wiped off, and the area will be sterilized for treatment. Dr. Green will determine the best-suited dermal filler for your sagging earlobes and expertly inject it into the treatment area. After the procedure, the injection sites will be cleaned, and ice will be applied to minimize bruising or swelling. Common side effects from dermal fillers include mild redness, swelling, and bruising, which typically resolve independently within a few days of treatment. Patients prone to bruising can take oral Arnika supplements a few days before and after the procedure to prevent and heal bruises faster. Patients are also advised to discontinue blood thinners, including NSAIDs, fish oil, and vitamin E, for one week before and after the procedure to minimize bruising. Dermal fillers are a safe and effective non-invasive treatment option for restoring volume and durability to sagging earlobes. Depending on the type of filler used, earlobe rejuvenation with dermal fillers can last approximately six months.

How to repair a torn earlobe

The first step in repairing a torn earlobe is consulting with an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. She will carefully assess the damage done to the earlobe and determine if you are a good candidate for an earlobe repair procedure. She will attentively listen to your cosmetic goals and create the best repair plan for you.

The procedure is performed in the office and does not require sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Green will apply local anesthesia, numbing the torn earlobe to minimize any risk of discomfort. Dr. Green will then repair the torn or ripped earlobe by removing the scar tissue lining the tear and then suturing the wound together. The specific procedure Dr. Green uses to suture the tear will depend on the severity of the rip, such as whether the ear has been lightly torn or ripped all the way through. Dr. Green may additionally use hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane to lift and plump the lobe for patients with sagging earlobes.

Following the treatment, Dr. Green will review the proper post-op care. Most patients do not require any special prescription pain medication after the treatment. Dr. Green typically recommends easy-to-access over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol if patients are experiencing any discomfort after treatment. Two weeks after the procedure, patients should return to the office to have the sutures removed. Three months after that suture removal, patients may return to have their ears re-pierced by Dr. Green. Dr. Green’s re-piercing of the ears guarantees that the piercings are performed safely, the new piercings are symmetrical, and the new holes are not causing additional unwanted damage to the repaired site.

Am I a candidate for torn earlobe repair?

When you consult with Dr. Michele Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will review your medical history and assess your torn earlobes to confirm whether or not you are a good candidate for a torn earlobe repair. Patients who have torn, damaged, enlarged, or stretched earlobes are typically good candidates for the procedure. Patients who have severe, extensive damage to the earlobe or are in need of complex reconstruction may need to see a plastic surgeon for repair, and Dr. Green will be able to provide you with a referral to a trusted surgeon.

How long does it take to repair a torn earlobe?

Each torn earlobe repair generally takes 30 minutes, and both earlobes can be repaired in one visit. However, the procedure may take longer depending on the severity of the tears or if more than one tear or piercing must be repaired.

How painful is earlobe repair surgery?

Earlobe repair surgery is not painful, as Dr. Green ensures the procedure is numbed with lidocaine. At the start of the procedure, a local anesthetic is injected at the site to numb the area, making the entire process pain-free. There is typically no pain after the earlobe repair surgery, although Tylenol can be taken as needed. Any discomfort from the procedure will subside within the next day.

What are my instructions after the torn earlobe repair?

Most patients can return to normal daily activities on the same day of the earlobe repair procedure. Pain medications are not typically necessary, though Tylenol can alleviate discomfort or aches. If there is any discomfort, it typically resolves within 24 hours post-treatment. Dr. Green will instruct you to apply antibiotic ointment, such as Bacitracin, to the earlobe repair surgery site. If the repair was extensive, she may have you take an oral antibiotic to prevent infection. After the procedure, you will be advised on how to care for the area and how to use over-the-counter Steri-strips. In addition, you should refrain from swimming or saunas for two weeks while the sutures are in place and the earlobe repair is healing. Dr. Green will have you return to the office for suture removal two weeks after the earlobe repair procedure. You can then schedule an appointment two months after suture removal for Dr. Green to re-pierce the ears. This timeline may be adjusted if the sensitivity of the earlobes persists after the repair.

How long does a torn earlobe take to heal?

The recovery is straightforward as the earlobe repair surgery will start to heal with the sutures in place. You should continue topical wound care and antibiotics until the sutures are removed two weeks later. The two weeks after torn earlobe surgery are the most important in terms of routine topical wound care, and patients must closely follow Dr. Green’s skin care instructions for the two weeks that the sutures are in place for full healing of the treatment area. Afterward, Steri-strips are generally placed on the site after the stitches are removed until they fall off independently, and the earlobe will continue to heal on its own for several months.

When can I re-pierce my ears after an earlobe repair?

In addition to performing the earlobe repair procedure, Dr. Michele Green will have you return to the office to re-pierce the ear in the correct location, generally two months after the cosmetic surgery. One of the advantages of having Dr. Green perform your ear piercing is that she ensures the correct placement of the new piercing.  Dr. Green will ensure that it is in the desired location and completely symmetric with the opposite ear, ensuring no further damage is done to the newly repaired earlobes. Earlobes are re-pierced only after the surgical area has completely healed from the earlobe repair procedure. Once Dr. Green re-pierces your ears, she will advise you to wear small earrings with posts similar to the stud earrings you used first to pierce your ears. You should also avoid wearing hanging wires, hoops, or heavy earrings. The new skin repaired will be weaker than normal for at least three months as the area heals and new collagen forms.

How much does torn earlobe repair cost?

The price for a torn earlobe repair depends on the extent of the repair involved. A complicated repair is more expensive than a simple earlobe repair. In addition, if both earlobes are involved, the cost of the surgical procedure increases. However, for most patients, the cost of earlobe repair varies between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the dermatologist’s expertise in performing the surgery, the complexity of the reconstructive surgery, as well as the geographic location (for example, New York’s costs may differ from San Francisco’s).

Does insurance cover earlobe repair?

Unfortunately, insurance companies typically do not cover cosmetic earlobe repair procedures. Though a torn earlobe can be a frustrating experience for many patients, the surgery for split earlobe repair is considered not medically necessary and, therefore, is not covered by health insurance. However, in the case of keloid scarring, insurance companies may cover the excision of the scar. If you think you may qualify for insurance coverage for your split earlobe repair, contacting your insurance company directly before proceeding with earlobe repair procedures is best.

What other plastic surgery procedures involve torn earlobe repair?

Facelifts often involve correcting the earlobe as well. Many patients with a full facelift, facial plastic surgery, tummy tuck, or blepharoplasty will choose to have earlobe repair surgery performed while under general anesthesia simultaneously. It’s worth noting that some patients are unhappy with their earlobes after a facelift, as the shape and position of the ear can sometimes be affected. After surgery, earlobes may seem elongated or distorted, and there may be a notching at the base of the earlobe without the normal curved arch. If you are contemplating fixing a torn earlobe in conjunction with a plastic surgery procedure, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon with a proven track record for earlobe repairs during a plastic surgery procedure.

How do you fix scars behind the ears from a facelift?

Plastic surgery is often an excellent method for facial rejuvenation, but to many patients’ dismay, it can often leave behind some unsightly scars. Whether an individual has a scar from having an ear surgery or other type of reconstructive surgery, such as a facelift, neck lift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, skin cancer removal, or liposuction, Dr. Green can help. Dr. Green offers numerous non-invasive cosmetic solutions for effectively and safely reducing the appearance of surgical scars. With over 25 years of experience providing the best treatments in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green uses the most cutting-edge methods and the latest skin-resurfacing laser technology. Fraxel, eMatrix, and VBeam lasers are among Dr. Green’s favorite laser treatments for diminishing the appearance of surgical scars.

The Fraxel Dual laser is an innovative skin resurfacing laser treatment that Dr. Green calls the “magic eraser” for its unique ability to target a wide range of skin concerns. The combination of two different wavelengths, 1927 nm, and 1550 nm, allows the Fraxel laser to be useful in treating many issues, including surgical scars on various body areas. The 1927 nm wavelength Thulium laser is catered to diminishing pigmentation, skin discoloration, age spots, and sun damage, while the 1550 nm wavelength Erbium laser can penetrate deeper into the skin to improve surgical skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Minimal downtime is associated with having a Fraxel procedure, so scheduling a treatment session can be done easily.

The eMatrix sublative rejuvenation laser is another excellent treatment option for eliminating surgical scars as well as minimizing acne scars, stretch marks, and other skin texture irregularities. The eMatrix treatment uses bi-polar radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat the skin deep within the dermis while preserving the top layers of the skin. This means there is no risk of hyperpigmentation that usually surrounds traditional ablative resurfacing as long as it is performed correctly by an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Green. Applying heat stimulates collagen production, creating a smoother, clearer skin surface. Additionally, the eMatrix is safe for use on patients of all skin types and skin tones, making it a safe treatment option for all patients with surgical scars.

The VBeam is a pulsed dye laser that is considered the gold standard treatment for treating red-pigmented scars. This laser selectively targets any red pigment in the skin, making it an ideal treatment option for surgical scars, rosacea, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, broken capillaries, and more. The VBeam treatment does not require any downtime whatsoever, as the laser only eliminates red pigment while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. As a bonus, the VBeam contains a patented Dynamic Cooling Device that releases a cool burst before delivering the laser beam to the skin, minimizing any discomfort during treatment. Multiple treatment sessions spaced one month apart are typically necessary to eliminate the red pigmentation and reduce the appearance of the scar. No matter what your surgical scar looks like, Dr. Green has a non-invasive treatment option for you.

How do I treat sagging earlobes?

Dr. Green often recommends Restylane or Juvederm injections to treat drooping or sagging earlobes. These hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers can help lift sagging earlobes and provide more durability to take on heavy earrings. Hyaluronic acid fillers are a useful revitalization tool for the earlobes, as they use a naturally occurring substance in the body – hyaluronic acid – to stimulate collagen production and restore volume and plumpness. This, in turn, can rejuvenate the skin of the earlobes, improving elasticity and offering greater strength to this area of tissue.

In most cases, “earlobe rejuvenation” or “lobe lift” treatments only take a few minutes, and there is no downtime or recovery. These earlobe injections are often combined with other facial injections to create a non-surgical or “liquid facelift“. This facial rejuvenation can also be combined with chemical peels, fractionated lasers, and other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.

How do I treat keloid scars on my earlobes?

Depending on the size of your keloids, it may require surgery to remove it. Keloids are a hereditary form of raised scar tissue that can develop due to injuries to the skin. After an ear piercing, keloids can develop behind the ears. Smaller keloid scars may be able to be treated with cortisone injections alone to shrink them. Cortisone injections can reduce the scar tissue within the ear, helping to flatten the scar and reduce the overall appearance of the keloid. Dr. Green also recommends using Kelo-cote, a topical scar gel, for these keloid scars.

Additionally, if you experience redness or discoloration due to keloids, Dr. Green may recommend the V-Beam® laser. The V-Beam laser is a gentle pulsed dye laser that reduces redness on the skin’s surface and is an excellent treatment for patients dealing with keloids, rosacea, prominent veins, acne scars, or facial redness. The V-Beam laser is an excellent way to treat redness from a keloid scar without any downtime or side effects.

How do you fix stretch ear piercings at home?

Gauge earrings are a popular trend in which the skin of the earlobe is stretched around a small ring, called a gauge. When you gauge the ears, the skin of the earlobe is weakened, causing damage to the ears. Though earlobes may be restored to their previous size after the removal of smaller gauges, larger gauges often lead to permanently stretched earlobes with holes too large to support traditional earrings. Earlobe stretching can also occur through consistently using heavy earrings and continually sleeping with earrings well after the piercing is fully established.

At earlier stages of the earlobe stretching, the hole can reverse; once the hole has increased in size, a much more complicated repair is required to reduce the appearance of gauged or stretched earlobes, including earlobe reduction surgery. This earlobe reduction surgery will involve an incision in the crease between the earlobe and cheek, removal of the overstretched earlobe tissue, and fine sutures to reconnect the earlobe. In the case of this more complicated surgery, you must work with an experienced plastic surgeon for a complicated earlobe repair.

How to fix a split earlobe at home

If you are dealing with a split earlobe, you should not attempt to repair the earlobe at home. For patients who experience a split in the earlobe due to a traumatic incident, injury, or sudden pulling or a rip, it’s best not to apply ice or a cold compress directly to the skin of the wound, as this can restrict circulation and may lead to a delay in the healing process. Instead, it’s better to place gauze over the wound, apply a cool compress, and seek treatment from a healthcare professional in a medical setting. Dr. Green has had success repairing a variety of torn earlobes, and the safety and satisfaction of her patients are her top priority. 

Can you glue a split earlobe?

It is not recommended under any circumstance that a patient glue a split earlobe in an attempt to repair it. The safety and efficacy of any treatment should always be considered, and applying glue of any kind to a split earlobe puts patients at high risk of developing an infection and may prevent proper healing. If you are seeking a solution to damaged earlobes, it’s best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green is an expert who can carefully and artfully repair your torn earlobe. Working with Dr. Green guarantees that you can restore your earlobes while avoiding risking infection or other unwanted side effects.

How to fix torn earlobe without surgery

Unfortunately, if your earlobe has torn, the tear must be repaired with a surgical procedure. The surgery is quick, comfortable, does not require significant downtime, and will not interfere with your normal activities. Although reconstructive surgery may sound somewhat intimidating, it is actually the safest and most effective way to fix a split earlobe. Entrusting an experienced and skilled board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, will guarantee ideal cosmetic results while avoiding unwanted side effects such as scarring or infection. If your earlobes are not split but have become stretched due to collagen loss, Dr. Green can restore the appearance and strength of your earlobe tissue through the use of dermal filler injections. Hyaluronic acid dermal filler products, such as Restylane and Juvederm, are commonly used to rejuvenate the appearance of a sagging earlobe. Consulting with Dr. Green is the best way to determine which earlobe restoration procedure would suit you best.

How to heal a ripped ear piercing

A ripped earring hole can annoy you and keep you from feeling and looking like the best version of yourself. Luckily, a quick in-office surgical procedure can be done to fix the ripped earring hole and restore your self-confidence. Dr. Green in NYC is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience repairing torn earlobes, whether the split was caused by a traumatic incident or by wearing heavy earrings or gauges. Usually, patients who undergo earlobe repair surgery have a quick recovery time and don’t need to take any time away from other responsibilities to accommodate downtime. Most patients resume their usual daily activities immediately after the ear lobe repair procedure is completed. Dr. Green will provide detailed aftercare instructions following your ear lobe repair to ensure you get the best cosmetic results from treatment.

How much does it cost to fix a ripped/torn earlobe?

The costs of a torn earlobe repair will depend on the repair’s complexity, your dermatologist’s experience, and even your geographical location. Costs for a torn earlobe repair can range from $1000 to $3000. Having your earlobe repaired by an expert, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who has been practicing cosmetic dermatology for over 25 years is essential. During your consult in her private New York City dermatology office, she will assess the area and extent of damage to create a treatment plan tailored to your concerns. At this time, the cost of the procedure will be confirmed.

Will a torn earlobe heal itself?

Unfortunately, torn, split, and stretched earlobes are unlikely to heal independently without surgical intervention. When an ear is pierced, scar tissue forms around the hold, preventing it from closing naturally. In some cases, patients may opt to live with a minor tear in the earlobe, provided it isn’t impacting their daily lives. However, for many, a torn earlobe can be a very frustrating or uncomfortable experience. Torn earlobe repair is the best solution to promote healing within the earlobe’s skin and prevent unwanted scarring or damage. Torn earlobe repair involves removing any damage and suturing the tear closed, allowing for proper healing of the skin and prevention of any scarring to the earlobe. If you are struggling with torn or stretched earlobes, it is best to consult an experienced cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Green, who can assist you in feeling confident and being able to wear your favorite earrings again. The procedure is painless and requires little downtime, making it an excellent choice for earlobe rejuvenation.

How do I get started with repairing my torn earlobes today?

If you’re bothered by a partially split earlobe or a complete earlobe tear, Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Whether the look of your earlobe has been affected by an injury, wearing gauges, collagen loss, or heavy earrings, Dr. Green can repair your earlobe in a quick and simple outpatient procedure that allows you to resume your normal activities the same day. After the procedure, patients can look forward to re-piercing their ear in as little as two months. For patients experiencing earlobe sagging or drooping, dermal fillers can help plump and support the skin. Keloid scarring from ear piercings can be ameliorated with simple cortisone injections to flatten the scar or the V-Beam laser to reduce redness. Dr. Green is an expert in all levels of ear rejuvenation and will work with you to restore your earlobes and make you feel like your best self again.

Dr. Green is an internationally renowned cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing the best non-invasive treatments, including earlobe repair procedures, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and more. She is consistently voted one of the best physicians in New York City by Castle Connolly, The New York Times, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine due to her outstanding patient satisfaction and expertise. The safety and satisfaction of her patients are always Dr. Green’s top priority, and she will take the time to develop a treatment plan for you that centers on your specific concerns and aesthetic goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and learn more about how to repair your torn earlobes today, please call our NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online.