What can I do about the large hole in the back of my ear piercing?

Question

I got my ears pierced four weeks ago. This morning my earring fell out, so I went to put the post back into my ear lobe. While the front of the piercing looked absolutely normal, the back of the hole was far larger than the front and still appeared raw. Was the backing of the earring on too tight? If so, what can I do to remedy the situation, and will my ear return to normal?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Apply Plato's Scar Serum on the scar and allow it to close without placing the earring back in. Later, you can repierce. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

Your description of the ear piercing wound suggests the retainer was pushing into the back of the ear, and this created a pressure wound on this surface.  If you want to maintain the piercing, I suggest you keep the post in place with a much looser position of the retainer backing.  You may use a piece of cotton over the wound (around the post) to keep it from macerating.  Unless the ear becomes very red and painful, the wound should heal in a week or two with concentric contraction of the edges.  If you suspect any infection, seek the evaluation of your physician.

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

From your description, it sounds as though the back of the earlobe is wounded and this is most likely from the earring backing/retainer.  The risk is that if there is infection there, keeping the earring in place would not be recommended.  If no infection, then possibly allowing the wound to heal with the earring in place could work.  Consider a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and best wishes to you.Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS
Wirth Plastic Surgery
Wirthplasticsurgery.com

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding your recent ear piercing.  I tell my patients that it takes 6-8 weeks for an ear piercing to heal.  If you are having issues with possible infection you would want to visit with your primary care physician to be treated.

What can I do about the large hole in the back of my ear piercing?

Answers (4)

Answer: Ear Piercing

Answer: Ear Piercing

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What can I do about the large hole in the back of my ear piercing?

Answers (4)

Answer: Ear Piercing

Answer: Ear Piercing

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Everything you need to know about Earlobe Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.