Earlobe repair

Earlobe repair (split or stretched)Earlobe repair is a common operation on the ear. A split earlobe may occur as a result of wearing heavy earrings or accidental tearing. Wearing heavy earrings can also lead to elongation of the piercing site and eventually a complete split of the earlobe. For some patients, elongation of the piercing site can be just as problematic as the hole becomes too large to hold ear studs.

Regardless of the cause, split earlobes can cause distress to those who want to continue to wear earrings or would like to restore symmetry to their earlobes. Earlobe repair is a short procedure that can usually fix a split earlobe.

Ear-plugs or flesh-tunnels have become increasingly popular but can cause permanent deformity of the earlobe if the hole is stretched out significantly. For some patients the appearance of their stretched earlobes can adversely affect their self-confidence and career.

Mr Karri can also reconstruct stretched earlobes by removing the excess skin and reshaping the remaining tissue, to form a natural-appearing earlobe. The technique is quite different to that used to repair split earlobes.

A split earlobe or ear-plug hole can be repaired under local anaesthetic with minimal discomfort, with the intention of creating a natural-looking earlobe.

The stitches do not dissolve and are removed after about 7 days. You can shower after 72 hours. Once the scar has matured, usually after about 3 months, the earlobe can be pierced again, slightly away from the scar. It is recommended small stud earrings are worn and heavy earrings avoided.

You can return to work immediately afterwards. If your work is dusty or dirty, or involves heavy manual work, you may benefit from 1-2 days off work.

Risks of earlobe repair

There are few risks with earlobe repair as the procedure is relatively safe and simple. Potential risks include:

Scar / poor scarring - some patients are prone to red, raised scars or keloid scars.

Infection

Bleeding

Asymmetry – the two earlobes may not match exactly

Delayed healing

Notching

Recurrence

Any further surgery is charged as set out in our Revision Surgery Policy.

Medically reviewed by

Mr Vasu Karri

BSc(Hons), MBBS, MRCS, MSc, FRCS(Plast)
Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Last updated 30th September 2026