Earlobe Repair
Earlobe Repair in Kirkland, WA
Earlobe repair is a straightforward, outpatient procedure to correct earlobe stretching, tearing, or deformities.
At Remington Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Austin Remington and Dr. Brad Remington provide safe and effective earlobe correction for patients across the Eastside.
What Is Earlobe Repair?
Earlobe repair is a minor outpatient procedure that restores the natural shape and structure of earlobes affected by stretching, tearing, or thinning. Damage may result from heavy earrings, gauges, injury, or age-related changes. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically involves removing damaged tissue and reshaping the lobe with fine sutures.
It is important to note that earlobe repair is distinct from otoplasty. While earlobe repair focuses on correcting the soft lower portion of the ear, otoplasty addresses the position or shape of the entire ear, such as prominent ear correction.
Who Should Get Earlobe Repair?
Earlobe repair is appropriate for adults who are in good general health and have one or more of the following concerns:
- Torn or partially torn earlobes due to trauma
- Stretched piercings from heavy earrings
- Large holes or thinning from gauged ears
- Asymmetry or visible deformity of the lobe
- Previous earlobe repairs that have healed poorly
During your consultation, Dr. Remington will perform a detailed assessment to determine if earlobe repair is the appropriate treatment and to develop a customized plan.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Earlobe repair is performed in-office using local anesthesia and typically takes 30-60 minutes. The area is cleaned and marked before small portions of scarred or stretched tissue are carefully removed. The remaining tissue is reshaped to restore symmetry and then closed with fine sutures, which may dissolve or be removed later.
Dr. Austin Remington and Dr. Brad Remington use precise techniques to support smooth, natural-looking outcomes. Their approach is designed to reduce the risk of contour irregularities, such as notching, while preserving the overall appearance and structure of the earlobe.
Recovery After Earlobe Repair
Recovery is brief for most patients, with many returning to normal activities the same or the next day. Some mild swelling or redness is common in the first few days and usually resolves without intervention.
Discomfort is minimal and typically managed with over-the-counter medication. Sutures are removed or dissolve within one to two weeks, depending on the type used. Complete healing usually takes four to six weeks.
Re-piercing is often possible after six to eight weeks, once the tissue is fully healed. Dr. Remington will provide post-procedure care instructions during follow-up visits and monitor healing.
Benefits of Earlobe Repair
Earlobe repair offers a safe and effective solution for restoring natural appearance and balance to the earlobes. Patients often pursue this treatment to correct damage and improve confidence in their facial profile. Benefits may include:
- Restoration of a smooth, symmetrical earlobe shape
- Correction of tearing, stretching, or thinning caused by trauma or jewelry
- Quick outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia
- Minimal downtime with a short recovery period
- Improved foundation for safe, properly placed re-piercing after healing
Cost of Earlobe Repair in Kirkland
Earlobe repair is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not typically covered by insurance. Costs may vary depending on the severity of the damage and whether one or both lobes are being repaired.
You will receive a detailed cost estimate during your consultation. Our staff can also discuss available payment options.
Why Choose Remington Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Brad Remington has provided surgical care to patients in the Kirkland area for over 30 years. A board-certified plastic surgeon, he brings deep experience in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, with a long-standing reputation for surgical precision and patient-centered outcomes.
He works alongside his son, Dr. Austin Remington, who trained at Stanford University and completed a competitive plastic surgery residency at the University of Michigan. Together, they offer comprehensive care in a Medicare-certified outpatient surgery suite in the EvergreenHealth Professional Center. The practice prioritizes safety, natural-looking results, and direct physician involvement at every step of care.
Earlobe Repair FAQs
How long is the recovery period after earlobe repair?
Most patients recover within four to six weeks. Mild swelling or tenderness may occur in the first few days, but it typically resolves on its own.
Will the procedure leave a scar?
A small scar is expected, but it is typically subtle and well-concealed within the natural folds of the earlobe. Proper wound care and surgical technique help minimize visible scarring.
When can I safely re-pierce my ears?
Patients are usually advised to wait six to eight weeks before re-piercing. Your surgeon will assess the area during follow-up to confirm when it is safe to do so.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anesthesia is used during the repair, so patients do not experience pain. Discomfort afterward is usually mild and manageable without prescription medication.
Can both earlobes be repaired at the same time?
Yes. If both earlobes require correction, they can be treated in the same session for convenience and consistent results.
Restore Confidence in Your Appearance
If damaged or stretched earlobes are affecting your confidence in your appearance, expert repair can make a lasting difference. Remington Plastic Surgery offers safe, effective treatment in a private, supportive setting.
“Very happy with my results and with the way I was treated“
“Thank you very much for a wonderful experience! I really appreciated being so well taken care of! I am very happy with my results and with the way I was treated. I will be sure to recommend you to family and friends.”
– E . P