Split Earlobe, Stretched Earlobe and Earlobe Reduction in Birmingham
At Midland Skin we offer split earlobe, stretched earlobe and earlobe reduction for patients in Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Worcester and the Midlands.
Earlobe repair by Specialists in Birmingham
A split or stretched earlobe can be a significant cause of distress and low confidence, and can prevent wearing earrings. We offer expert earlobe repair surgery in Birmingham to restore the natural shape and contour of the earlobe.
Our earlobe repair service covers Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and the Midlands.
Quick facts about earlobe repair [TO UPDATE]
- You need three 45 minute treatments – one every 3 to 4 weeks
- The results get better with time and at one year there is an average reduction in inflammatory spots of 97% according to clinical studies
- There are no harmful side effects
- The treatment is safe in all skin tones and all year round
- You do not need to take long-term tablets or creams
- There can be short-lived purges which can be managed with medications
What is a Split Earlobe?
A split earlobe refers to a tear in the earlobe, most commonly resulting from:
- Accidental pulling of earrings
- Prolonged wearing of heavy earrings
- Progressive stretching due to thinning of the earlobe, especially as we get older
- The split may be partial, where a part of the lobe is still connected, or complete, where the earlobe is fully split through and through.
Who is suitable for Earlobe Repair?
You may be suitable for earlobe repair if you have:
- Completely or partially torn earlobes
- Enlarged holes from heavy earrings or gauges
- Scars or deformity from previous trauma or unsuccessful repairs
Scarlett Greenwood
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Consultation
We begin with a detailed consultation to assess your earlobe, discuss your goals, and explain the options. We’ll also review your medical history and answer any questions you may have.
Surgical Technique
Earlobe repair is carried out under local anaesthetic and typically takes 30–60 minutes per side. It involves:
- Marking and cleaning the area
- Administering local anaesthetic
- Removing the scarred edges of the split
- Carefully suturing the wound to recreate a natural earlobe shape
Fine sutures are used to minimise scarring, and in most cases, the result is barely noticeable over time.
Recovery after Split Earlobe Repair
- Most patients resume non-strenuous activities the next day
- Mild swelling and bruising usually settle within a few days
- Stitches are removed after 7–10 days
- Avoid sleeping on the repaired side for several nights
- Earrings should not be worn for a minimum of 3 months
- Re-piercing can be considered after a minimum of 4 months
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Ready to get started? Book a consultation with our team at Midland Skin. Friendly, expert advice tailored to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a visible scar?
A fine scar may be visible initially but typically fades well. We take care to minimise its appearance.
Can I re-pierce my ears?
In many cases, yes, usually after 4 months. Avoid the scar line and also avoid wearing heavy earrings.
Is it painful?
Once the local anaesthetic injections have been administered, there is no discomfort. The procedure is carried out while you are awake.
Are there risks?
Risks of surgery include infection, bleeding, widened or lumpy scar formation, numbness, and recurrence of the split. Fortunately, complications are rare.
Stretched Earlobe Repair (Tribal Earlobes and Gauges)
If your earlobes have been stretched from gauges, flesh tunnels, or plugs, we can surgically restore them to a more natural shape.
Even after removing body jewellery, the stretched hole may not fully close, especially if it was large or worn for many years. We offer surgical repair under local anaesthetic to:
- Remove excess tissue
- Restore a natural contour to the lobe
- Allow future piercing, if desired
Each procedure is tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Earlobe Reduction
If your earlobes have been stretched from gauges, flesh tunnels, or plugs, we can surgically restore them to a more natural shape. Some individuals naturally have large or pendulous earlobes or experience elongation with age. Earlobe reduction is a procedure that reshapes the earlobe by removing excess tissue and recontouring it for a smaller, more proportionate appearance.
Earlobe reduction can be performed on one or both sides, often in combination with split or stretched earlobe repair.
Ashley Cooper
Why choose Midland Skin for earlobe repair?
- Specialist-led care: Our procedures are carried out by experienced dermatological and surgical practitioners
- Natural results: Every repair is customised for your anatomy and aesthetic preferences
- Minimal downtime: Most patients return to normal activities within 24 hours
- Comprehensive aftercare: We support you at every stage of healing and follow-up
PRICING EXAMPLE LINK
References used for this article
About the Author
This page has been written and/or medically reviewed by Dr Sajjad Rajpar, Consultant Dermatologist and Medical Director of Midland Skin, Birmingham.
Dr Rajpar is on the GMC Specialist Register in Dermatology and has over 20 years’ experience in clinical dermatology. He provides clinical oversight to ensure the information on this page is accurate, balanced and consistent with current dermatology practice.
Dr Sajjad Rajpar
Date last updated: 6th Mar 2026
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Expert, consultant led care in dermatology, skin surgery, eyelid surgery, lasers and aesthetics.
Disclaimer
The content on this website is provided for general information only. It is not, and must not be treated as, medical advice, a diagnosis, or a recommendation for any particular treatment. We make reasonable efforts to keep information accurate and up to date, but medicine and technology change, and content may not reflect the most current evidence, guidance, product information, or individual practice. You should not rely on this website to make decisions about your health or treatment. Always seek personalised advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Any examples, images, testimonials, and outcome descriptions are illustrative only. Results vary between individuals and no outcome can be guaranteed.
