I have a hard bump on my ear lobe. It's been there for a while, and I'm getting worried. How do I get rid of it? (Photo)

Question

It's on my right ear. It used to hurt, but not any more. Sometimes it bleeds. My earring still goes threw my ear, but it's embarrassing and I would like to know how to get rid of it.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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 multilayered 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.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Raymond E. Lee, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing.  It does look like a  keloid (scar tissue) most likely from a piercing in that area.  These should be treated with injections.  Commonly a steroid injection and / or 5 FU is used.  This may be performed 2 or 3 times spaced 4-6 weeks apart.  Consult with a board certified dermatologist / plastic surgeon.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is a keloid scar and can be treated with surgical removal and/or injections.  I suggest seeing a well trained procedural cosmetic dermatologist.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Earlobe repair is a very common procedure. Frequently, we have patients who will have the procedure done the same day as the consultation. Typically, the cost is between $450-850 per earlobe, depending on the severity and the length of the procedure.You may be able to find a doctor who will do this under insurance but i am not aware of any.The length of time the ears have been gauged should have no effect on the procedure. As long as the tissue is no longer irritated or inflamed, there is no reason not to give it a try. Gauged ears are sometimes more difficult than some other earlobe repairs since the tissue is so over stretched, but we are still able to create a natural looking earlobe. You can get your ear re pierced about 6 weeks after and should be included in the pricing. Shop around in your area and see if you can find a plastic surgeon in your budget

Garrett A. Wirth, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Hard to tell if that is a keloid or a cyst.  I recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for full evaluation.

Luis A. Cenedese, MD, FACS · Answer

Lumps on the earlobe are often caused by piercing which can result in a Keloid.  Keloids are difficult to treat as they are not predictably cured by surgery or injections. Once a keloid as grown to a certain size injection may shrink it but not enough to make it small enough to be acceptable.  Surgical excision may require a commitment on the patient's part to undergo monthly injections and use of pressure earrings to prevent its regrowth.  Please consult in person with an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon prior to making treatment decisions.Cheers

Pedram Imani, FRACS, MS, MBBS (Hons) · Answer

This is most likely a keloid. The most likely cause is trauma from an ear ring. Best to see your surgeon as early injection of steroids and pressure application followed by surgery if it fails to respond is the usual way forward. Hope this helps.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

This appears to be a keloid. You should have this evaluated by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. It might improve with injection treatments or might require removal with a small surgical procedure. Either way, it would be best to stop putting an earring through that piercing as it's traumatizing the tissue and creating more scar tissue there. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Ana Carolina Victoria, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Sometimes people develop epidermal inclusion cysts in their earlobes after piercing. These may or may not have some whitish malodorous discharge.   They can be surgically removed. Other common lesions are keloids. Keloids are much trickier to fix since any trauma to your tissues is prone to developing a keloid. I would consult with a plastic surgeon to explore this growth and what to do about it.

I have a hard bump on my ear lobe. It's been there for a while, and I'm getting worried. How do I get rid of it? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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