How much will it cost to repair my stretched ear lobes? (Photo)

Question

I just took the jewelry out so there is more shrinkage to be expected on its own but I know it won't be able to close up all the way. I had my earlobe stretched to half an inch. How much would you say it will cost me to close my earlobe?

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

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Ear Lobe surgery cost varies significantly for a number of good reasons: Prices vary greatly because the surgery itself encompasses a wide range of techniques that can be performed to different extents. My recommendation is to first find the most qualified surgeons where you want the surgery performed that are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or Facial Plastic Surgeon you trust, then compare prices between them. See the below link on suggestions on how to find the most qualified plastic surgeon for your procedure. General Factors that influence the price of plastic surgery include:
1. Location - Most procedures will be performed in a doctor’s office where costs can be contained. If not will it be performed in a hospital or an independent out- patient facility? Geographical location also has a significant influence. RealSelf has average charges for most areas of the USA.
2. Type of Anesthesia – local anesthesia is typical and less costly. If IV sedation or General Anesthesia is used: Will a board certified anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, or an RN be used?
3. Experience and training of your surgeon. The best and longest trained is most often a plastic surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
4. Length and Complexity of Surgery - how difficult will your surgery be and how long it will take, etc. 
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Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Cost to repair stretched earlobe piercingThis is a simple and common procedure done in the office under local.  In Orange County the fees range from about 750-1500.In my office surgery , or and supplies runs about 1500.00  to have this done correctly

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Repairing your stretched earlobes will likely cost around $800/side.More important than the cost, however, is the technique that is used to repair them!Make sure you see a plastic surgeon that has experience closing stretched or "gauged" earlobes because the repair is different than the traditional repair of a simple torn earlobe piercing. In order to avoid a pointy shape to your earlobe, or an unnatural look, it is necessary to remove a small amount of earlobe tissue in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions. If your earlobe piercing is simply excised and closed as a straight line, you'll likely end up with a pointed shape. Thanks for sharing!

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Many thanks for your question.
Ear lobe surgery is a simple procedure which can be performed under local anaesthesia and will give you the appearance you desire.
I advise all my patients to bring in pictures of ear lobes they find aesthetically pleasing to ensure that I am able to give them the outcome they are hoping for.
I hope this helps

Omar Fouda Neel, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry. Earlobe repair is a quick and simple procedure that is performed at my practice under local anesthesia. Its takes about 25 - 30 mins. Estimated price is $1500-$2000. A consultation is necessary prior to surgery.

Jeffrey Swetnam, MD · Answer

Good question.  This is becoming a common problem with the popularity of "gauging" ear lobes.  Depending on the size of the opening, the repair can be simple, or fairly complex.  In your situation, the repair would be moderately complex to get a good closure that heals well.  Our usual fee for this type of repair would be around 1000.00 for an in office procedure taking about an hour for both ears.

Larry Pollack, MD · Answer

Hi there, thank you for the question.  There is a range in what you will pay in different practices for this type of repair.  Based on your photo, I think you can expect to pay around $500.  The procedure can be done in the office under local anesthesia and you will have sutures in your ear for about a week. Good luck!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

The  repair of the stretched ear lobe is a great procedure that can restore the ear lobe to a “normal” appearance".  Care must be taken during this procedure to avoid reducing the size of the air and/or creating a notch/ depressed appearance in the area of the rim of the ear lobe.   It is usually done under local anesthesia with very high patient satisfaction rates. Costs of surgery range from $500-$1000  for both ears, in our practice.  You will find many examples of this procedure performed on this website and on the attached link as well. Best wishes.

Nancy Becker, DO · Answer

The procedure to close your ear ring hole is simple and done in the office setting.  It will take 30 minutes per ear, you will have stitches for seven days, and the cosst is $400 for one ear and $600 for 2 ears.