You’re walking through Kenwood Towne Centre, past the Apple Store and the Nordstrom, and you see it—Rowan. It looks like a high-end jewelry boutique, all bright lights and minimalist gold displays. But if you think this is just another mall kiosk like the ones we grew up with in the 90s, you’re mistaken.
Rowan Kenwood Towne Centre is doing something fundamentally different. They aren't just selling earrings; they’ve turned ear piercing into a clinical procedure performed by licensed nurses. It’s a weirdly specific niche that bridges the gap between a sterile doctor’s office and a trendy lifestyle brand.
The Nurse Factor: Why It Actually Matters
Let’s be honest. Most of us have a "mall piercing" horror story involving a teenager with a plastic gun and three days of training. At Rowan, the person holding the needle or the device is a Registered Nurse. These are professionals who understand cross-contamination, skin integrity, and anatomy.
For parents in Cincinnati, this is a massive deal.
When you take your kid to the second floor of Kenwood Mall—specifically near the Food Court and The Cheesecake Factory entrance—you aren't just getting a service. You're getting a medical professional who knows how to handle a nervous seven-year-old and a pair of sterile lobes.
What You’ll Pay: Let’s Talk Numbers
People often get sticker shock here. If you go in expecting Claire’s prices, you’ll be disappointed. Rowan charges a service fee for the piercing itself, usually around $35 for a single or $50 for a double when using their hand-pressurized device.
But that’s just the start.
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You then have to buy the jewelry. They only use hypoallergenic materials—think 14k solid gold, sterling silver, or titanium. A pair of basic gold studs can easily run you $50 to $100+. By the time you add the "Advanced Aftercare" solution, which they strongly suggest (and sometimes make you feel like you must buy), you might be looking at a $150 to $200 bill.
It’s expensive. No doubt about it. But for many, the peace of mind of having a nurse do the job justifies the cost.
The Two Ways They Pierce: Needle vs. Device
Rowan Kenwood Towne Centre offers two distinct methods. This is where things get interesting for the "piercing purists" out there.
- The Hand-Pressurized Device: This is not a spring-loaded gun. It’s a manual tool where the nurse applies the pressure. It’s quiet—no loud "snap" to scare the kids. It uses a single-use cartridge, which is arguably the most sterile way to go for standard lobe piercings.
- The Hollow Needle: This is what you’d find at a traditional tattoo and piercing parlor. It’s generally considered better for healing because it removes a tiny sliver of skin rather than pushing it aside. It’s the go-to for cartilage or for anyone over the age of five who wants a "pro" experience.
Privacy and the "Mall" Vibe
One of the best things about the Kenwood location is the layout. Remember sitting in a chair in the middle of a hallway while strangers watched you get your ears done?
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Yeah, Rowan doesn't do that.
The piercing stations are tucked away toward the back of the studio. It feels private. You can actually have a conversation with the nurse—Anisa is a name that pops up constantly in local reviews for being a "pro"—without feeling like you're on display for the Saturday afternoon mall crowd.
Is It a Scam? Dealing with the Controversies
If you dig through Reddit or the BBB, you’ll find complaints about "scam pricing" or hidden costs. Usually, this comes down to a lack of communication. If you walk in without asking the price of the earrings before the nurse starts the prep, you might be in for a surprise at the register.
Always ask to see the jewelry tray and the price tags first.
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Another point of contention: the "Nurses Only" claim. While they are indeed licensed nurses, some traditional piercers argue that a nursing degree doesn't replace a multi-year piercing apprenticeship. It’s a fair debate. A nurse knows how to keep things sterile, but a professional piercer spends years studying the specific physics of how different ear shapes heal.
Getting There and Booking
The studio is located at 7875 Montgomery Rd, Suite 2411. If you’re familiar with the mall, look for it on Level 2, nestled between Kendra Scott and State of Liberty.
- Pro Tip: Use the entrance by The Cheesecake Factory. It’s the shortest walk.
- Hours: * Mon-Thurs: 11am – 8pm
- Fri-Sat: 11am – 9pm
- Sun: 12pm – 6pm
Appointments are highly recommended, especially on weekends when the mall is a zoo. You can book online, which also lets you sign the waivers ahead of time so you aren't fumbling with a tablet while your kid is having a meltdown.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
If you’re planning to head to Rowan Kenwood Towne Centre, do these three things to ensure you don’t leave frustrated:
- Set a Budget: Decide beforehand if you’re okay with spending $150+. If not, tell the nurse immediately so they only show you the "Essentials" or titanium collection.
- Check the Age Rules: They pierce all ages, but needle piercings are typically reserved for those 5 and older. If you have a baby, you'll be using the device method.
- Ask About the Nurse: Every shift has a licensed nurse on-site. Don't be afraid to ask about their experience or to see their credentials if it makes you feel more comfortable. It's your body (or your child's), after all.
Verify your jewelry choice is 14k gold if you have extreme nickel sensitivities, and make sure to grab the aftercare sheet before you leave—the first 72 hours are the most critical for avoiding that dreaded "mall ear" infection.