I have a bump on my cartilage piercing and I do not know what it is an if it should be there? (photo)

Question

I have had this piercing for approximately 12 weeks now and it is still sore, and now a bump has appeared on the top and bottom of the hole, I would like to know what it is

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office repairs earlobes after a traumatic tear of earrings, gauge piercings, or after a facelift in which the earlobes are stretched. Earlobe surgery is composed of several techniques that can either repair torn earlobes (split earlobes) or correct overly redundant earlobe tissue from piercings or genetics or stretching. Our HIDEF earlobe repair includes a recontouring of the earlobe contour using multi-layered sutures to reapproximate the curvature of the earlobe; while simultaneously restoring contour to the ear. In patients with pixie ears after facelift surgery, an alternate technique is used to reduce the dependance of the earlobe on the facelift flap. Facelift surgery can reshape the earlobe and this requires restoration. Sutures are usually taken out within 10 days and the wound is repierced in 4-6 weeks thereafter. Keloid scars must be addressed in patients with known history for scarring.

Keloids are another major reason to undergo earlobe repair if there is a keloid scar nodule that has developed in the earlobe or ear cartilage rim. We use a combination of lasers, injections, and keloid surgery.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

John F. Reinisch, MD · Answer

The bump and tenseness is inflammatory tissue caused by the  the ear piercing.  The more inflammation, the more scar tissue will form.  The inflammation is the result of either rection to the metal or a low grade infection.   It will improve if you remove the ear ring and keep the area clean.  It may take 2 to 6  months to see the improvement.

I have a bump on my cartilage piercing and I do not know what it is an if it should be there? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Earlobe Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I have a bump on my cartilage piercing and I do not know what it is an if it should be there? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Earlobe Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.