Before earlobe repair, it is worth asking who will carry out the procedure, what technique they will use to limit notching, how they manage keloid risk, when you can wear earrings again and what the fee includes. The checklist below groups the key questions, with an idea of what a good answer looks like.
Questions about training
Earlobe repair is a small procedure, but the ear is highly visible and the result depends on careful technique.
- Who will perform the repair?: a good answer names the surgeon, not a team member you have not met.
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: a plastic surgeon is trained in reconstructing delicate facial tissues. Registration can be checked on the GMC website.
- What is your surgical qualification?: the FRCS (Plast) is the UK specialist qualification in plastic surgery.
- Are you a member of BAAPS or BAPRAS?: membership shows engagement with professional standards.
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds the FRCS (Plast) and is a BAAPS Council member.
Questions about the technique
- How will you close the tear?: listen for an explanation of how the surgeon reduces notching, such as a zig-zag or small flap closure, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Do both ears need doing?: a thoughtful answer considers balance between the ears and your own wishes.
- Will it be under local anaesthetic?: for most repairs the answer is yes.
- What if my lobe is stretched by gauges?: the surgeon should explain whether a reshaping or earlobe reduction approach is needed.
Questions about scarring
Ask how the scar is likely to look and how long it will take to settle. A good answer explains that earlobe scars are usually fine and fade over twelve to eighteen months, and that a small notch can sometimes form. If you have ever had a keloid, ask how the surgeon will reduce the risk and what treatment is available if one starts to form. The earlobe repair risks guide sets out these issues in full.
Questions about earrings
- When can earrings be worn again?: a responsible answer is not before the lobe has fully healed, typically at least six to twelve weeks.
- Where should the new piercing go?: usually slightly beside the scar rather than through it.
- Will you plan the repair around a future piercing?: a surgeon who asks about your earring plans at the outset is thinking ahead.
Our guide to re-piercing after earlobe repair goes into this in more depth.
Questions about aftercare
- When are the stitches removed?: commonly at around seven to ten days, unless dissolving stitches are used.
- Who is the contact if something seems wrong?: you should be given a direct contact for the team.
- What happens if the lobe splits again?: ask about the revision policy and whether any further treatment would be charged.
Questions about cost
Ask for a written quote that shows what is included. With Mr Nassab, earlobe repair costs from £850 for one lobe or £1,250 for both, including the procedure and routine follow-up, with the £150 consultation charged separately. See the earlobe repair cost guide for the factors that can affect the fee.
Warning signs when choosing a provider
Be wary of clinics where you do not meet the person carrying out the repair, where there is no clear follow-up, or where keloid history is not discussed. A very low price may reflect limited training or no aftercare, and a poor first repair can make later correction harder. Taking a little time to compare providers, and asking the questions above, is worthwhile even for a small procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a consultation needed before an earlobe repair?
Yes. The consultation allows Mr Nassab to examine the lobe, plan the technique and discuss scarring and re-piercing before any treatment.
Are photos useful?
Photographs of your earlobes before the tear or stretch can be helpful when discussing the shape you would like.
Is it useful to bring your usual earrings?
Yes. Showing your usual earring style helps plan the repair and discuss suitable jewellery for the future.
Is it worth repairing a small elongated piercing?
If the hole has stretched but not split, a repair can prevent it tearing fully and allows a neater re-piercing.
What about your own health?
Mention any blood-thinning medicines, allergies to local anaesthetic or dressings, previous keloids and whether you smoke. Ask the surgeon how each of these affects the plan, and whether anything should change in the weeks before the repair. A good surgeon will want to know about all of them and will explain any adjustments clearly.
