Can I close normal earring holes that are too high? (Photo)

Question

My holes are too high on my earlobe, it is a normal size, however, it makes it difficult to wear small hoop earrings, and I don't like the way studs look.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

It is possible to close these small openings, but likely not necessary. If you go without earrings for a long enough period, these holes should close on their own and you can pierce your ear lower on the earlobe likely without consequence. Surgically closing the superior (upper) hole will leave excess scar tissue and could complicate further piercing attempts.

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

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

From your picture it appears that you should have an excellent opportunity to remove that piercing site under local anesthesia and after an appropriate time, get a new piercing done.  Best wishes.  WirthPlasticSurgery.com

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are interested in changing the position of ear piercing, you would require closure of the earlobe, which is a small procedure that can be done in the office under local anesthesia.  You can then have the ear pierced again in the appropriate location approximately 6 weeks later.

Kristin A. Boehm, MD · Answer

The piercing hole can be repaired in office and repiercing performed in a more ideal location.

Omar Fouda Neel, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  Yes it is possible to close the piercing with a suture.  In very small cases to smooth out the existing dimple, a filler could be a good solution as well.  Always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon.Best of luck

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

Yes the piercing could be removed surgically as a small procedure under local anaesthetic. However, I would consider getting your ears re-pierced in the position you would like and leave the old holes which may become less obvious with time. If really want to have them closed later then you could do so but I suspect that the piercing will not be that noticeable once you are wearing earrings in the new position.Best wishes

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

The holes can be closed surgically but you might want to just leave them alone and see if they heal up due to disuse.  That would be the more cost effective solution.

Can I close normal earring holes that are too high? (Photo)

Answers (8)

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