Why Are People Getting Earlobe Filler, and More Important, Does It Work?

Yep, you read that correctly: People are getting fillers in their earlobes. Why? Well, purportedly, they help support heavy statement earrings and perk up sagging piercings.

We chatted with expert Dr. Dendy Engelman, dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery and director of dermatologic surgery at Metropolitan Hospital, to bring you all of the deets.

First off, why are people getting earlobe filler?

"As we age, our earlobes are prone to thinning, especially when heavy earrings pull on them. The piercing gets stretched. Fillers plump them up, so your earrings sit upright. I’ve had patients get fillers and then get tons of compliments on their diamond earrings. Same diamonds, they’re just perky and visible."

Are there any benefits for younger patients?

"Filler provides additional support, so they can wear heavier earrings without worrying about damaging their ears."

When did you start seeing the trend?

"I’ve been offering it to people for about 14 years, and they used to think it was crazy. In the past year, people have started coming to me and asking for it."

What’s the procedure like?

"It’s very easy and takes several minutes; we just put a little numbing cream on before injecting it. I’ve never had a patient want it out, but if you did it’s totally reversible."

How long does the filler last?

"Unlike lip fillers, which degrade pretty quickly, because you’re moving them around a lot, earlobe fillers last for a long time—about half a year to a year."

Do you prefer a certain variety of fillers?

"All hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvederm, are flexible and look quite natural."

Finally, we’re dying to know: how much does it cost?

"You usually pay per syringe, which can range from $900 to $1,200. You only need a little bit, so sometimes dermatologists are willing to split a syringe. Or, if you’re getting your lips or smile lines done already, there will often be a tiny bit left and you can ask for that to be injected into your ears."

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