Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect
How do I book an ear piercing appointment?
To begin, submit a request for a phone consultation through the booking form. Please indicate:
• Your preferred appointment type (home visit or studio visit)
• Your availability (preferred dates and times)
This helps ensure we find a time that works best for your family.
Does ear piercing hurt babies?
Ear piercing can cause a brief moment of discomfort, similar to a quick pinch. The actual piercing takes only a few seconds, and most babies settle quickly afterward.
Because infants and young children cannot always understand what is happening, the experience may feel more surprising than painful. Creating a calm environment and having a supportive parent present can help make the process smoother.
At Little Lobes, the procedure is performed by a Registered Nurse using the Inverness medical ear piercing system, which is designed for a quick and gentle piercing experience. Careful preparation, precise placement, and a calm approach help minimize distress for babies and children.
Some pediatric sources note that ear piercing causes brief, mild pain similar to other minor skin procedures. Feeding, cuddling, or offering comfort immediately after the piercing often helps babies settle quickly.
Reference:
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Ear piercing for children. HealthyChildren.org.
https://www.healthychildren.org
Why is a phone consultation required before ear piercing?
Before booking, a brief phone consultation is conducted to ensure the appointment is safe and appropriate.
During the consultation we will:
• Complete a health screening
• Review the ear piercing procedure
• Discuss jewelry options (including medical-grade titanium)
• Answer any questions you may have
This step ensures parents feel comfortable, informed, and prepared before their child’s appointment.
Is a deposit required to book an appointment?
Yes. Once you decide to proceed, a deposit is required to secure your appointment date.
Your appointment will be confirmed once the deposit is received.
How should I prepare my child for ear piercing?
Preparing your child ahead of time can help create a positive experience.
Helpful tips include:
• Talk about the procedure in a calm and positive way
• Let them know there will be a quick pinch and that it will be over quickly
• Give them a sense of control (for example, choosing their earrings)
• Bring comfort items such as a favourite toy, blanket, or snack
What happens during the ear piercing appointment?
On the day of the appointment:
• Consent and documentation are reviewed
• The earlobes are cleaned using proper hygiene practices
• The placement is carefully marked and confirmed with you
• The piercing is performed using the Inverness Medical Ear Piercing System
This system is designed for quick, gentle, and precise ear piercing.
How long does ear piercing take?
The piercing itself takes only a few seconds. However, appointments are scheduled for approximately 45 minutes to allow enough time for a safe, calm, and unrushed experience.
During the appointment we will:
• Review consent and documentation
• Complete a brief health screening if needed
• Carefully clean and mark the ear lobes for placement approval
• Perform the piercing using the Inverness system
• Review detailed aftercare instructions
If a child becomes uncomfortable or needs more time, the appointment may be paused and rescheduled to ensure the experience remains positive. If the procedure cannot be completed within 60 minutes, a follow-up appointment will be arranged.
Will I receive aftercare instructions?
Yes. After the piercing, detailed ear piercing aftercare instructions will be explained and provided in writing.
This includes guidance on:
• How to clean the piercing
• How long earrings should remain in place
• Signs of normal healing
• When to seek advice
Parents are also welcome to reach out with questions during the healing process.