After earlobe surgery on a torn earlobe, how long will the ear take to heal before it can be pierced?

Question

I have earlobe surgery scheduled for 8/19/16 and would like to wear earrings by 9/8/16.

Gregory Baum, MD · Answer

I recommend patients wait 3 months prior to re-piercing. The time constraints you are under put you at risk to re-tear. Best wishes.

Elliot Heller, MD · Answer

We tell our patients to wait 6 weeks following the surgery before they can re pierce the hole. Usually we re pierce it for them.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is much more common procedure than many people realize that plastic surgeons perform. I typically wait 6 weeks after the repair, then I have patients bring in a light pair of stud earrings that they wish to wear for a few weeks before changing them out. We agree on the proper location on the ear lobe, but it cannot be exactly in the line of the repair (higher risks of it re-opening). I hope that helps you, and I'd say that 99% of patients who have this done are very pleased. Best wishes.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If you need to wear earrings before the three month mark, consider using clip-on earrings. When you get re-pierced, it may be best to place the new hole near to, but not on the scar. Re-piercing through the scar predisposes to another tear.Hope this helps.Dr Joseph

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

i always tell my patients it will be around 6 weeks before we can re-pierce, and that post will stay in for one month before switching earrings.  everyone has different practices, so i suggest you contact the PS who did your earlobe repair as depending on the extent of the repair you may be able to do things sooner, or may need to wait a little bit longer.  best of luck.

Morgan E. Norris, III, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question! It will always depend on your individual healing process but it is recommended to wait at least 6 weeks to allow your earlobes to fully heal from surgery.Be well!

Michael Zenn, MD · Answer

I have my patients wait 3 months after earlobe repair before re-piercing. Depending on your healing, you may be able to wear a clip on style sooner. Check with your plastic surgeon.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD · Answer

Usually you want to wait at least 6-8 weeks to repierce earlobes after repair. Best wishes.Dean Vistnes, MDVistnes Plastic SurgerySan Francisco Bay Area

Owen Reid, MD · Answer

I typically recommend waiting 4 months or more if the piercing is going to be close or right along the scar that results form the earlobe repair. If the scar and the re-piercing are more distant from each other than a shorter time period may be appropriate, but I would discuss this with your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I like to wait about 3-4 months before re-piercing them. This allows for the tissues to soften enough around the area and allows for easy piercing.

After earlobe surgery on a torn earlobe, how long will the ear take to heal before it can be pierced?

Answers (13)

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