What treatment/procedure could help with this type of scarring on the earlobes? (photos)

Question

Scar tissue developed after acne and trauma to the right earlobe. Have talked to a few plastic surgeons and ENT docs and they all think that surgery would make the situation worse. However a few think that some type of steroid injection (can't remember) could help give the earlobe a more normal look. Would like if somehow the bottom scar bump which sticks out the most could be removed or reduced in size giving the earlobe a more normal appearance. Just want to get the opinion of some other doctors before I decide what to do.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Intralesional injections of anti-inflammatory agents, such as triamcinolone acetonice suspension and 5-FU--in varying concentrations and amounts, are mainstays for the treatment  to flatten hypertrophic and keloid scars. This would, therefore, be a reasonable approach, although there is a risk for the development of atrophy and/or loss of pigmentation in the treatment area.
In more resistant cases, Scalpel Sculpting can be performed to remove the protruding bulk of scar tissue, s(o that the treated area is now flush with the surrounding normal skin). This then can be followed, either at the time of the removal or subsequently, by use of the intralesional injections to reduce the chance of recurrence.
You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist. Hope this helps you, and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Treatment Options for Earlobe Scarring

If surgery isn't recommended, here are some alternative treatments to consider:

Steroid Injections – Can help flatten raised scar tissue and soften the appearance over time.
Laser Therapy – Fractional or vascular lasers may help improve texture and discoloration.
Microneedling with PRP – Stimulates collagen remodeling and can help smooth out irregularities.
Cryotherapy – Freezing the scar tissue can reduce its size, though results vary.
5-FU or Bleomycin Injections – Often used for keloids and hypertrophic scars to shrink them.
Silicone Gel or Sheets – Can help soften and flatten scars over time.
The best approach depends on the nature of your scar—whether it's hypertrophic, atrophic, or keloidal. A dermatologist can tailor treatment to your specific case for optimal results.

What treatment/procedure could help with this type of scarring on the earlobes? (photos)

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What treatment/procedure could help with this type of scarring on the earlobes? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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