When can I get my ears pierced after otoplasty?

Question

I had bilateral otoplasty done yesterday and I’m curious as to when I can go get my ear lobes pierced?

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Many Otoplasty procedures will not address the earlobe unless it is specifically deformed from the reshaping of the helix. In these procedures, it should be safe to get your ears pierced after about six weeks. If the earlobe was reduced, which occurs in some otoplasty procedures, I would wait 12 weeks to ensure the scar is mature is enough to hold a piercing.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Earlobe surgery is composed of several techniques that can either repair torn earlobes (split earlobes) or correct overly redundant earlobe tissue from piercings or genetics or stretching. Our HIDEF earlobe repair includes a recontouring of the earlobe contour using multilayered sutures to reapproximate the curvature of the earlobe; while simultaneously restoring contour to the ear. In patients with pixie ears after facelift surgery, an alternate technique is used to reduce the dependance of the earlobe on the facelift flap. Facelift surgery can reshape the earlobe and this requires restoration. Sutures are usually taken out within 10 days and the wound is repierced in 4-6 weeks thereafter. Keloid scars must be addressed in patients with known history for scarring.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.  I suggest waiting around 2-3 months until you get your ears pierced.  Best of luck!Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certified 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
Hoffman Estates 
Orland Park
Oakbrook

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

I recommend the longer you wait the better.  I would not want any piercing done before six weeks, but waiting a few months so all swelling and scars/reshaping is better established is better in my opinion to help you get your best possible long term result with a new piercing.  Best wishes. WirthPlasticSurgery.com

Kristin A. Boehm, MD · Answer

I would recommend waiting 4-6 weeks after otoplasty before proceeding with ear piercing.  Always best to check with your surgeon and get their recommendation.  Best of luck.

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

We recommend waiting 2 months after otoplasty for piercings. Be sure to consult with your surgeon and best of luck to you.

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

This depends a little on what surgery has been done. Did surgery involve the ear lobes which usually it would not. I would advise my patients to wait at least until the ears are fully healed and I had reviewed them at 4 weeks after surgery. In general not before 6 weeks but in some situations longer. You should check with your surgeon.Best wishes

Rachel A. Ruotolo, MD, FACS · Answer

If a classic otoplasty was performed (to "pin" your ears back) and your earlobes were not involved in the incisions,  I would wait at least 3 weeks before piercing your ears. It is best to consult with your surgeon, however, to ensure that you are cleared. This will be dependent upon where the incisions are placed. If they are involving the earlobe, I would recommend waiting 3 months prior to piercing. Good luck!

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