Lobe piercings typically take about 6 to 8 weeks to heal externally, meaning the outer part of the piercing looks and feels healed

. However, the full internal healing and maturation of the piercing can take longer-generally around 4 to 6 months

. During this time, the tissue strengthens and the piercing becomes less prone to irritation or infection. The healing process occurs in stages: initial inflammation with swelling and redness, followed by tissue regeneration where new collagen forms, and finally maturation where the tissue gains strength

. Even if the piercing looks healed after a few weeks, the inside may still be fragile and require continued care. You can consider your lobe piercing fully healed when there is no more discharge, swelling, redness, or soreness, and the earring feels loose and comfortable to move

. Changing earrings too early can prolong healing or cause infection, so it’s recommended to wait at least 6 to 8 weeks before changing the starter earring

. In summary:

• External healing: 6 to 8 weeks
• Full internal healing/maturation: 4 to 6 months
• Signs of full healing: no redness, swelling, discharge, or pain; earring moves freely without discomfort