I have had an extra piece of cartilage (I assume) on my ear since I was born. What is this ear deformity? (photo)

Question

It is like a ball in my ear, and has a small hole that looks like a piercing facing outward. It does leak a very small amount of pus. What is this, and what type of doctor do I see to have it removed?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Extra cartilage in the earlobe is quite common and in our office, we usually employ outpatient procedures to remove the cartilage and mass with surgery.Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. This is likely a congenital cyst. While not dangerous, they can become infected and certainly can be a cosmetic concern.These can usually be treated under local anesthesia with removal of the cyst and the draining sinus (hole). I recommend a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

This probably represents a congenital cyst or sinus which forms during the fusion of different parts of the ear.It can be removed surgically. See a Board certified plastic Surgeon for accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

I have had an extra piece of cartilage (I assume) on my ear since I was born. What is this ear deformity? (photo)

Answers (3)