What Is The Cost Of Stretched Earlobe Repair?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have stretched earlobes that I would really like to have reversed so that I can join the Marines. How is the procedure done and how much does it cost?

A: One of the most common reasons patients present for stretched or gauged earlobe repair is because they want to enter some branch of the Armed Services. All branches of the military have a strict rule about any size hole in the earlobe. If you have any form of ear piercing, the test is to place a white 3 x 5 card behind it. If any white is visible through the hole, then it must be repaired for medical clearance for entrance. Earlobe repair is done as a simple office procedure under local anesthesia. It takes about one hour to complete for both earlobes. The holes are cut out and the earlobe reconstructed with the remaining tissue. In almost all cases the size and shape of the original earlobe is restored with a very fine line scar down through the center of the earlobe. The cost for both earlobe repairs is $1500.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana