Should I Tie a String Around my Hypertrophic Scar on my Ear to Remove It?

A scar that grows beyond it's initial borders is classic for keloid, as is the location you note on your picture.  So first of all, this is a keloid.  Second, choking that area off progressively is a mistake, and will only lead to poor cosmetic results and recurrence.  There is no easy fix here that you can do on your own.  So either accept the fact that it will require a cosmetic fee and prepare, or wait.  But keep in mind the surgeon will likely suggest steroid injections as part of your post removal planning, and these are very important.  You must keep the follow up appointments.  The best surgery in the world can be lost if follow up is not performed.

Regarding: "Should I Tie a String Around my Hypertrophic Scar on my Ear to Remove It?
I just lost my job, so I have no insurance and can't afford surgery. My ear got massively infected, and after messing with it too much over the years it has become what I thought was a keloid. After research, I'm guessing it is a hyperthropic scar. People seem to have success (though a lot of pain) by tying a string around it until it turns black and falls off. What are the dangers/risks? Would this work? I'm depressed to the point I cry everyday and ALWAYS hide my ear... I want it gone."

You do have a keloid. (A hypertrophic scar does not spill outside the boundaries of the injury). Do it yourself surgery is not realy a good idea if you cannot afford or handle potential complications. You are proposing to cut the blood supply to the keloid getting it to die and then fall off. If this happens without an infection you will now have a raw wound at the base which would heal any way it wants to. There is nothing preventing it from creating a similar keloid or a worse one.

Dr. Aldea