Torn earlobes occur with more regularity than realized. Heavy earrings, excess pulling on the earring, and direct trauma to the earlobe can cause a partial split or complete tear in the earlobe. Sometimes insurance will cover the repair, but most carriers consider repair cosmetic.

Dr. Mandell-Brown & Dr. Maccarone

Dr. Mark Mandell-Brown and Dr. Gina Maccarone strive to offer Natural Look™ cosmetic surgery results in an educational, supportive environment. Each holds multiple board certifications, so you can rest assured that your surgeon has the credentials and aesthetic eye to precisely tailor your surgical plan for safe, aesthetically sound outcomes.

Portrait of Dr. Mandell-Brown and Dr. Maccarone smiling

Repair of the earlobe is a brief facial plastic surgery procedure. The incision line that forms may take several months to heal and be less noticeable. Typically, the ear can be re-pierced about 8 to 10 weeks after repair. Occasionally, a keloid or thicker scar may result. These keloids can be treated with special medicine to help settle the scar.

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mandell-Brown — Updated on Mar 11, 2024