Ear Piercings With Keloids?

Question

When I was younger I had my ears pierced, but got keloids. I gave up for many years, but now am thinking about getting my ears pierced again. I still have the keloids. It has been 8 years since I've tried having my ears pierced, and a little over a year ago I got a tattoo and have had no problems with it at all. Would it be okay for me to get my ears pierced? (knowing the keloids are still there, and knowing I did fine getting a tattoo) Thanks! Steph

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Ear piercing after keloid resection is possible, but only recommended in select cases.  I would recommend a careful evaluation and assessment of risk.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

If you still have keloids from your last attempt at ear piercing I wouldn't recommend trying again. The fact that you did not keloid with a tattoo doesn't rule out the possibility that your ear keloids would worsen after another attempt. In my opinion, it is not worth the risk and the downside of going though treatment of the pre-existing and potentially new keloids. I hope this information is helpful.Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

I would consider having cortisone injections into your existing keloids to see if they can greatly reduce these stubborn scars. If there was an insufficient response, then I'd consider excision of the keloid. Unfortunately, the ear is a high risk area for keloids (as are the chest, shoulders and upper back), and keloids are much more common in some ethnic groups (typically darker skin types). You would unfortunately have to face the potential that you could redevelop a keloid if you were to repierce your ears, so make sure to have a good discussion with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon about the best treatment options for you. We'd be happy to assess you at Toronto Dermatology Centre,  phone: 416-633-0001.

Moneer Jaibaji, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Unfortunately, no one can tell if you would get another keloid or not, but, there is high likelihood that you will. You mentioned tattoo "and have no problems". There is no mention on which area of the body. Generally speaking, keloid tend to have predilection to certain areas. The ear is one of them.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you have had keloids, it probably is not a good idea to get your ears pierced.  You are at a very high risk of developing keloids again.

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