Needle Ear Piercing
Needle ear piercing in Scottsdale performed by a registered nurse under the direction of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Howarth. A safer, more refined alternative to piercing guns, offered in a clean, medical-grade setting.
Needle Ear Piercing in Scottsdale – Safe, Sterile, and Nurse-Performed
Needle ear piercing at Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD offers a level of medical care and precision that sets it apart from traditional piercing studios. Every piercing is performed by Emmalee, RN, a registered nurse with clinical training in sterile technique, soft-tissue handling, and post-procedural care. We use a single-use, hollow needle—not a piercing gun—to reduce trauma, minimize infection risk, and support smooth healing.
This service is performed in a private, medical-grade setting and is overseen by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Howarth. Whether it’s a first-time lobe piercing or a curated stack, our team ensures each placement is thoughtfully considered for symmetry, safety, and long-term comfort. At Aesthetica, ear piercing is more than a service—it’s a procedure, guided by credentials and performed with care.
Not Just a Piercing. A Procedure.
At Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD, ear piercing is approached with the same clinical precision and aesthetic sensibility as any other in-office procedure. Performed by Emmalee, RN, each piercing utilizes single-use, hollow needles instead of piercing guns, ensuring minimal tissue trauma, reduced risk of infection, and a smoother healing process.
This service is conducted in a private, medical-grade setting under the oversight of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Howarth. Whether it’s a first-time lobe piercing or a curated ear stack, we ensure each placement is thoughtfully considered for symmetry, safety, and long-term comfort. Optional numbing is available, and comprehensive aftercare guidance is provided to support optimal healing.
Our commitment to excellence extends to the selection of hypoallergenic fine jewelry, including 14k gold and titanium options, enhancing both healing and style. From consultation to aftercare, every detail is designed to provide a luxurious, medically safe experience with beautiful, lasting results.
Why Needle Piercing Is a Better Choice
There’s a significant difference between piercing with a hollow needle and piercing with a gun—and that difference matters for both comfort and healing. At Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD, we use single-use, sterile needles that create a clean, precise opening in the tissue. This method causes less trauma, reduces the risk of infection, and allows for better alignment—especially important for symmetry and long-term wearability.
Traditional piercing guns force blunt jewelry through the skin, which can crush tissue, lead to swelling, and prolong the healing process. Needle piercing, by contrast, is gentler, more controlled, and far more appropriate for both children and adults seeking a safer, more refined experience. It also allows for more jewelry flexibility and cleaner insertion.
Every piercing is performed by Emmalee, RN, in a quiet, clinical environment, using techniques informed by soft-tissue handling and sterile procedure standards. From start to finish, this is a medical approach to a common cosmetic service—elevated by expertise, intention, and care.
Performed by a Registered Nurse
Your piercing is performed by Emmalee, RN, in a private, medical-grade setting using sterile technique and clinical-grade tools. With a background in soft-tissue handling and patient care, she ensures a calm, safe experience for both children and adults. Every step—from prep to post-care—is done with intention, professionalism, and comfort in mind.
Hollow Needle, Not a Piercing Gun
We use a single-use, hollow needle—not a piercing gun. This method creates a cleaner, more precise opening in the tissue, resulting in less trauma, less swelling, and a faster healing process. It’s the gold standard for ear piercing and allows for safer, more symmetrical results—especially important for long-term wearability.
Hypoallergenic, Medical-Grade Jewelry
We offer medical-grade, hypoallergenic jewelry options including implant-grade titanium and 14k gold. Each piece is selected to support proper healing and reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reaction. Jewelry is packaged sterile and never reused, ensuring the highest level of safety and cleanliness from start to finish.
Personalized, Anatomy-Aware Placement
Piercing placement is never rushed or templated. Emmalee carefully evaluates your ear shape, anatomy, and lifestyle to ensure each piercing sits comfortably and aligns beautifully. Whether it’s your first lobe piercing or part of a curated stack, the result is tailored to you—not a one-size-fits-all studio map.
ELEVATE YOUR LOOK WITH AN ELEGANT EAR STACK
Discover the art of ear piercing at Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD, where every piercing is placed to highlight your personal flair and elevate your unique style.
FAQ
How much does a hollow needle ear piercing hurt?
A hollow needle ear piercing is often described as a quick pinch. Earlobe piercings tend to be the least painful due to minimal nerves and fatty tissue. Cartilage piercings, such as those on the helix or conch, may feel slightly more tender, though most patients report that it hurts less than expected.
Do you offer numbing cream for the procedure?
Yes, we offer numbing cream to reduce discomfort for patients who are anxious or sensitive to pain. Our nurse, Emmalee, is skilled at creating a calming environment to make the procedure as comfortable and seamless as possible.
What is the minimum age requirement for a needle piercing?
We require patients to be at least 12 years old, with parental consent for minors. This policy ensures both safety and cooperation, as it is essential for patients to remain still throughout the procedure for optimal results.
How long does it take for ear piercings to heal?
Healing times vary based on the placement and adherence to aftercare instructions. Earlobe piercings typically stop feeling tender by 8 weeks, while cartilage piercings can take up to 1 year to fully heal. It is important to keep jewelry in place for at least 12 months to prevent the piercing from closing.
When can I change my jewelry?
For earlobe piercings, jewelry can typically be changed after 8 weeks, provided there is no tenderness. For cartilage piercings, it is best to wait at least 12 weeks before changing jewelry. Avoid hoops for 4-6 months, as they can cause friction and irritation during healing.
Why don’t you use piercing guns?
We do not use piercing guns because they can cause blunt trauma to the ear, leading to irritation and delayed healing. Instead, we use sterile hollow needles, which create a cleaner incision and promote faster, safer healing.
What makes getting pierced by a registered nurse better?
A registered nurse provides medical expertise that ensures both safety and aesthetic precision. Emmalee takes the time to understand your piercing goals and medical history, offering personalized recommendations and aftercare support. Her background in healthcare allows for a higher level of care and a superior piercing experience.
ELEVATE YOUR LOOK WITH AN ELEGANT EAR STACK
Discover the art of ear piercing at Aesthetica by Dr. Ashley Howarth, where every piercing is placed to highlight your personal flair and elevate your unique style.
Jewelry Options for Your Ear Piercing
Selecting the right jewelry is essential for both a smooth healing process and achieving a look that reflects your personal style. Our hypoallergenic fine jewelry options provide elegance, comfort, and safety. We offer three premium material choices, each tailored to meet the needs of different preferences and sensitivities.
14k Yellow Gold
Timeless and radiant, yellow gold offers a warm, classic beauty. Perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions, its durability and hypoallergenic nature make it an excellent choice for healing. This is ideal for those who appreciate a traditional yet striking aesthetic that stands out
14k White Gold
For a sleek, modern appearance, white gold provides a subtle shine that enhances both minimalist and bold designs. Its polished finish complements a wide variety of styles, making it a versatile option for patients who want an understated yet sophisticated look. Like yellow gold, it’s hypoallergenic and well-suited for safe healing.
Titanium
Known for its lightweight comfort and biocompatibility, titanium is ideal for sensitive skin or those prone to allergic reactions. Titanium offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring a secure fit and peace of mind during the healing process. It’s a favorite for patients who prioritize durability and hypoallergenic properties.
All of our jewelry options are threadless flatback studs, designed for minimal irritation and a secure, comfortable fit. This style allows for ease of movement without friction, ensuring that your piercing heals smoothly and looks beautiful throughout the process.
During your appointment, Emmalee, our registered nurse, will help you select the perfect piece of jewelry to complement your anatomy and aesthetic goals. Whether you’re creating a minimalist ear stack or adding a statement piece, you’ll leave with a look that’s uniquely yours.
Personalized Placement and Piercing Options
Personalization is at the heart of our ear-piercing services. We believe that every ear is unique, and your piercing should reflect your anatomy, lifestyle, and personal style goals. Our registered nurse, Emmalee, takes the time to craft a fully tailored piercing experience, ensuring that each placement enhances both aesthetic balance and comfort.
Piercing Options Offered
• Earlobe piercings: First, second, and third lobe placements or constellation designs
• Mid-helix piercing: A stylish option that adds a touch of elegance
• Helix and flat helix piercings: Great for a trendy, stacked look on the ear’s outer rim
• Conch piercing: Positioned in the ear’s inner cartilage for a bold yet refined statement
Whether you prefer delicate symmetry or a layered, curated look, we have the expertise to achieve the perfect design for you.
Custom Placement Consultation
Your piercing journey begins with a detailed placement consultation. Emmalee will assess your ear structure and discuss your desired look, whether it’s a single elegant piercing or a multi-layered ear stack. With her aesthetic expertise, she’ll guide you in choosing placements that not only look stunning but also heal well and fit seamlessly into your everyday life.
Do you envision a classic pair of lobe piercings, or are you dreaming of a constellation design that sparkles with individuality? Emmalee will collaborate with you to create a plan that brings your vision to life, ensuring that each piercing complements your anatomy.
Dr. Ashley Howarth
Cutting-edge medical aesthetics, skin care, and laser treatments curated by Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ashley Howarth
Dr. Ashley Howarth, a renowned board-certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, leads our medical aesthetics practice with unparalleled expertise and precision. A graduate of the Mayo Clinic and an expert in both surgical and non-surgical procedures, Dr. Howarth is committed to providing personalized treatments that enhance natural beauty. With her deep understanding of facial and body aesthetics, clients benefit from her extensive experience in delivering cutting-edge treatments like laser therapies, injectables, and skin rejuvenation, making Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD a premier destination for high-quality medical aesthetics in Scottsdale.
Choosing a medspa led by a female, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Howarth comes with significant advantages. With her medical expertise, Dr. Howarth ensures the highest levels of safety and care in every treatment, whether it’s a microneedling session or advanced laser treatments. Her empathetic approach, especially toward women seeking to enhance their natural beauty, offers a unique and compassionate perspective in aesthetic care. Clients in Scottsdale trust Dr. Howarth to deliver both luxurious results and a superior standard of medical care at Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD’s medspa.
Indulge in bespoke treatments guided by industry veterans at Aesthetica by Ashley Howarth MD. Receive an unparalleled level of care from providers with unmatched experience, ensuring natural results that are uniquely you.
ELEVATE YOUR LOOK WITH AN ELEGANT EAR STACK
Discover the art of ear piercing at Aesthetica by Dr. Ashley Howarth, where every piercing is placed to highlight your personal flair and elevate your unique style.
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