Palo Alto Office
105 Addison Ave.
Palo Alto, CA 94301
(650) 407-2922
Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Los Gatos Office
326 Village Ln
Los Gatos, CA 95030
(408) 402-3220
Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
The IO Clinic
999 Alma Street
Palo Alto, CA 94301
(650) 327-3232
Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Earlobe Repair
For centuries, earrings have been worn to enhance one’s beauty and appearance. Over time a piercing site can stretch from years of wearing heavy jewelry. On occasion, a person may suffer a tear in the earlobe, resulting in a cleft or a split in the lobe. This can lead to discomfort and self-consciousness, as well as the inability to wear earrings. Split earlobe repair can allow you to feel more confident and wear your favorite jewelry again.
In addition, as we get older, our earlobes continue to stretch and elongate, sometimes noticeably. You may simply want a smaller earlobe that would be in better proportion with your ear and the rest of your face. This can also be accomplished with surgery.
Pre-Operative Process
Am I a candidate for split earlobe repair?
You may be a candidate for earlobe surgery if the appearance of your earlobe draws unwanted attention, detracts from other facial features, or if you generally don’t find your earlobe shape to be attractive. Common reasons for seeking out this type of surgery:
- Split earlobes
- Stretched or elongated piercing holes from jewelry or gauged ears
- Elimination of a piercing

Meet Our Surgeons
Get to know our world-class, board-certified facial plastic surgeons, known for the precision of their work and consistently satisfied patients.
Technique
How is this surgery performed and what should I expect after my split earlobe repair?
Split earlobe repair is performed under local anesthesia in the office. A small tape bandage is worn for seven days. Sutures are removed five and seven days after the procedure. Re-piercing is performed six weeks after the procedure and is part of the repair package, if desired. Your facial plastic surgeon will make recommendations about earring materials for piercing to minimize the chance of recreating a deformity.
Because a local anesthesia is used, it will not be necessary to have someone drive you home. You will be able to resume your usual activities the day following your surgery. We have provided split earlobe repair before and after photos of our patients to help you visualize the possibilities.
Request your consultation online or call (650) 407-2922 to schedule an appointment to see us in the Bay Area in our Palo Alto or Los Gatos offices.
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