Ear Filler: From Trending Asian Treatment to U.S. Favorites

Across the Pacific, a new filler trend is gaining steam. But while ear filler is a popular option in the U.S., state-side practitioners warn that Asia’s version isn’t recommended.

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Asian Ear Filler Is Trending

In Asia, many people are opting for filler injected behind the ear or in the antihelix (the curved piece of cartilage in the middle of the ear). “When I was in China, one of the dermatologists told me this is one of the most commonly performed procedures that he does, and I couldn’t believe it,” says Minneapolis dermatologist Jenny Liu, MD on Instagram. “But now I see it everywhere on Reddit.”

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This trending treatment is designed to make the face look smaller, which is the current beauty standard in Asia. However, U.S. practitioners warn that injecting dermal fillers into this part of the ear comes with serious risks.

What do U.S. experts think?

“We do not put filler in the cartilaginous ear as it is high risk for vascular necrosis and safe treatments are always the most important priority before outcomes of trying to make the face seem smaller,” explains Fort Lauderdale, FL dermatologist Matthew Elias, MD.

The issue is that the upper ear doesn’t have great circulation, which raises the risk of negative outcomes.

“The cartilage areas at the top of the ear have limited blood supply,” explains New York dermatologist, Julie Russak, MD. “That makes them prone to complications such as necrosis or infections when dermal fillers are injected. The ear’s vascular structure is delicate, and having poor blood circulation in this region heightens the risk of adverse outcomes. Therefore, U.S. practitioners are generally cautious in areas with compromised blood flow in order to prioritize patient safety and avoid risks.”

Additionally, there are other ways to accomplish the illusion of a smaller face.

“A more harmonious and elongated face shape can be achieved by carefully placing filler in places including the chin, jawline and temples,” Russak says. “You can also add strategically placed neuromodulators like Botox or Dysport to relax the Platysma and masseter muscles, which slims the lower face.”

What is ear filler like in the U.S.?

“In the U.S., we use filler in the ear to correct volume loss in the earlobe, or to repair enlarged or torn earlobe holes,” Dr. Elias explains. “Hyaluronic acid fillers are our go-to for ear filler, my favorite of which is Teoxane RHA.”

The goals for ear filler in the U.S. have more to do with age than in Asia.

“The earlobes can become thin, wrinkled or elongated with age,” says Dr. Russak. “This treatment helps support earrings, smooth out creases and provide a youthful and balanced appearance to the ears. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Restylane or Juvederm, are excellent choices for treating this area. They are soft, pliable and offer natural results while being easily reversible if needed. It’s a subtle, but impactful enhancement.”

Though still less common than facial fillers, ear filler in the U.S. is becoming ever more popular.

“Earlobe filler is becoming more mainstream, particularly in women as they get into the 50-75+ age group,” Dr. Elias says.