As firm, rubbery nodules that form on the ear after a minor trauma such as ear piercing, Ear Keloids may appear on the earlobe or on the upper cartilage portion of the ear. With varying characteristics such as size and color, ear keloids can become painful, particularly when they are large in size and begin to distort the ear itself.

To better understand the formation of keloids in general, one may compare them to a hypertrophic scar, which is simply a raised scar on top of a wound. Keloids, on the other hand, extend beyond the boundaries of an original wound, which explains why they can become quite large in comparison to the area of trauma. The keloid is a result of the build up of scar tissue, along with an excess of type 3 collagen that is replaced with type 1 collagen.

In regards to ear keloids, they are notably complex to treat. Though steroids may be used to treat smaller formations, larger keloids are often removed surgically. Even so, with any surgery, the risk of scar tissue formation is evident. Additionally, there is a risk that the keloid will return. To combat this, steroid medication may be injected in the edges surrounding the keloid prior to the completion of the surgery. Furthermore, patients with large keloids that prove difficult to treat may benefit from radiation treatments following surgery. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia reports that post-surgical radiation treatments can reduce the risk of keloid recurrence to 10-15%. Additionally, liquid nitrogen has been used to freeze ear keloids, providing another option for patients hoping to prevent recurrence.

Natural, Beautiful and Balanced Results

Highly respected for his expertise in ear keloid treatments and reconstructive ear surgery, Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones is a double board certified plastic surgeon with a specialty in otolaryngology. Whether an ear keloid is the result of an ear piercing, previous surgery or other trauma, Dr. Jones is well equipped to determine the most effective treatment protocol, one that provides a natural, beautiful and balanced result.

If you have an ear keloid and it has a raised, nodular appearance, or if you’ve noticed changes in skin texture, pain or itchiness, you can trust Dr. Jones for the highest standard of care and treatment that you can feel good about.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jones, call his office—Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C. today.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones, Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C.
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