What should you know about earlobe keloid removal?

A keloid is firm, raised scar tissue that grows beyond the boundary of the original wound. On an earlobe it may follow piercing, surgery, trauma, or inflammation. It can feel itchy, tender, tight, or simply noticeable. A new lump is not automatically a keloid; compare it with information about [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) and have a clinician examine a changing, bleeding, or ulcerated lesion.

Treatment depends on the size, firmness, symptoms, and previous treatment. Options may include [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/), pressure therapy, cryotherapy, laser treatment, or surgery followed by measures intended to reduce regrowth. A clinician may discuss [Keloid Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/keloid-excision/) or [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/). Do not pierce, squeeze, or repeatedly traumatise the area while it is active. [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/) and [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/) may be considered for selected scar features.

Arrange a dermatology review if an earlobe lump is enlarging, itchy, painful, restricting jewellery, or returning after treatment. Seek prompt care for warmth, pus, spreading redness, fever, sudden bleeding, or a rapidly changing surface. Early review helps distinguish a keloid from infection or another type of lesion.

Ask whether the lump extends beyond the piercing track, which treatment combination fits its size, how recurrence will be monitored, whether pressure jewellery is suitable, and when another ear piercing should be avoided.