Dr Stefano Cotrufo is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in London Harley Street with over 15 years’ experience as a plastic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery specialist.
The most common causes of earlobe deformity are tearing, stretching, and splitting/elongation from piercings. A more modern deformity of the earlobe is called “pixy ear”. This is a specific complication of a facelift where the skin resection was not successful, causing stretching of the earlobe inferiorly. The outcome is a “vertical elongation” of the earlobe, requiring further surgery when possible.
In all cases, earlobe repair is a focused surgical procedure designed to restore the earlobe’s natural shape and integrity. Changes to the earlobes may also occur gradually over time: a typical example is the constant growth of the ear cartilage throughout our lifespan, which justifies our grandfathers for having huge ears! Ear distortion can also be acute and happen suddenly, for example, if jewellery is pulled, and can affect confidence and comfort when wearing earrings. Earlobe repair surgery performed by Dr Stefano Cotrufo aims to recreate a balanced, natural-looking earlobe that sits harmoniously with the rest of the ear and face.
Patients seeking earlobe repair in London often do so because of split or torn earlobes, or stretched tissue that no longer securely supports earrings. The procedure is tailored to each individual, with careful attention paid to symmetry, proportion, and long-term healing. Sometimes deflated ears can benefit from fillers in the form of hyaluronic acid or fat grafting.
Earlobe repair surgery can successfully address tears and splits in the earlobe, improve the appearance of stretched or elongated lobes, and correct piercing holes that have widened over time. The aim of treatment extends from closing the damaged area to rebuilding the earlobe structure so that it looks natural and heals securely. In many cases, this also makes it possible to have the ear re-pierced at a later stage, once healing is fully complete, in most cases six months after the repair under Dr Cotrufo’s guidance.
For individuals with significant splitting, tearing, or elongation of the earlobe, surgery is usually the most reliable treatment option – often the only one. During your consultation, Dr Cotrufo will assess the extent of the damage and discuss whether earlobe repair is appropriate or whether another form of ear-reshaping procedure may better suit your needs. A key focus of this discussion is achieving symmetry between both ears and ensuring that the final result complements your overall facial features.
Your consultation is a vital part of the treatment process. During this appointment, you will be able to discuss the reasons you are considering earlobe repair and the outcome you hope to achieve. Dr Cotrufo will assess the ear’s unique anatomy and distortions to deal with, review your general health and explain the most suitable options for your individual situation. You will also be guided through what to expect before, during, and after your earlobe repair surgery, including likely recovery time, aftercare instructions, and practical considerations such as costs, treatment timelines, and possible complications (both generic and more specific to your case).
As your procedure approaches, you may be advised to make small adjustments to your routine to support safe treatment and optimal healing. This may include undergoing routine medical checks, stopping smoking, reviewing your current medications, and avoiding substances that could interfere with recovery, such as certain supplements or blood-thinning medicines. Smoking is considered a contraindication to this surgery, and patients are routinely tested on the day of surgery to confirm that there is no nicotine in their system, with a chance to cancel the procedure according to Dr Cotrufo’s terms and conditions of business.
Any nicotine use should be suspended at least 4 weeks before surgery in order to result in a negative for the nicotine test. Nicotine is a strong vasoconstrictor and is scientifically proven to jeopardise wound healing – in general – and increase the incidence of complications such as infection and wound dehiscence.
You may also be asked to limit sun exposure to the ear area and maintain a stable, balanced diet to support wound healing. If a sedative or general anaesthetic approach is planned, you will be given clear guidance on fasting requirements and other pre-operative instructions in advance of the procedure.
Earlobe repair surgery is typically completed within a relatively short period of time, although the exact duration depends on the complexity of the correction required. The procedure focuses on carefully rebuilding the earlobe tissue to restore a smooth, natural contour that integrates well with the surrounding skin. Fine suturing techniques are used to support healing and help minimise visible scarring. Particular attention is given to achieving balance between both ears, especially when repairing a split earlobe on one side only.
In the days following earlobe repair surgery, it is normal for the area to feel tender, and some swelling or bruising may be present. These effects usually settle within around one to two weeks, while any temporary numbness generally improves gradually over the following weeks. A light or supportive dressing may be required for a short period, and you will normally be advised to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and intense heat exposure during the early stages of recovery.
The stitches used during earlobe repair are often self‑dissolving, which means they do not usually need to be removed. Activities that place pressure on the ears or cause them to bend should be avoided while the tissue is still healing. Scars will continue to mature over several months, often looking more noticeable at first before slowly softening, flattening, and fading with time.
Dr Stefano Cotrufo is a highly experienced reconstructive microsurgery specialist with a particular focus on procedures involving the face and neck. His approach to earlobe repair surgery is meticulous and patient-centred, with careful attention paid to detail, balance, and long-term outcomes. By combining technical precision with a deep understanding of facial harmony, Dr Cotrufo aims to deliver results that look natural and help restore confidence. Patients are supported throughout their journey with clear communication, personalised planning, and comprehensive aftercare.
Split earlobes commonly occur due to prolonged wearing of heavy earrings, accidental pulling of jewellery, or gradual stretching of the piercing over time. In some cases, the split develops slowly before eventually becoming complete.
Earlobe repair surgery can provide a long-lasting solution when the repaired tissue is allowed to heal fully and is not put under unnecessary strain. Following aftercare advice carefully and avoiding heavy or stretching earrings helps protect the result and maintain the earlobe’s shape over time.
Initial healing usually occurs within a few weeks, although the earlobe continues to strengthen and the scar continues to mature over several months.
Scarring is generally minimal and becomes less noticeable as healing progresses. Scars often appear more prominent in the early months before gradually softening and fading over time.
In many cases, re-piercing is possible once the earlobe has fully healed, provided the tissue is strong and the scar has matured sufficiently. This option is usually discussed and planned during follow-up appointments so that the new piercing can be placed safely and in the most suitable position.
Discomfort after earlobe repair is typically mild and short-lived, and many people manage well with simple over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Most patients describe a feeling of tenderness or soreness rather than significant pain during the recovery period.
Yes, both earlobes can be repaired during the same procedure if required, with careful attention given to achieving symmetry between them.
Suitability is determined during your consultation with Dr Cotrufo, where the condition of your earlobes, your overall health, and your goals are carefully assessed to decide on the most appropriate treatment plan.
We’re here to help. To learn more about Earlobe Repair surgery or to schedule a consultation call 0207 873 2330 or enquire below. You can also view our testimonials or follow us on Instagram.









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© 2025 Dr Stefano Cotrufo | All rights reserved