Can't get helix piercing bar changed???

My piercer said to come back 4 weeks after the initial piercing to get the bar exchanged for a shorter one. Then he told me I was too swollen and to come back the next month. He's done this a couple times, and for some reason my piercing continues to be too swollen to get a shorter bar. I know that it's pretty crucial for helix piercings. I clean regularly and don't sleep on it. Any advice??