Keloid after nostril piercing: what to know

A keloid is extra scar tissue that grows beyond the original piercing injury. It can feel firm, smooth or itchy and may enlarge gradually. A bump confined to the piercing channel can instead be irritation, a hypertrophic scar or infection, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. Do not squeeze, cut or repeatedly rotate the jewellery; these actions can keep the area inflamed.

Arrange a dermatology assessment, especially if the lump is growing or rubbing against the nostril. Keep the area clean with gentle washing and avoid harsh antiseptics, friction and new piercing trauma. A clinician may discuss intralesional steroid injection, cryotherapy or laser treatment. Surgery can remove bulk, but a keloid can return after removal, so follow-up treatment may be advised. See [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) or [Keloid Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/keloid-excision/) to understand options.

Seek prompt medical care if the nostril becomes increasingly painful, hot, swollen or drains pus, or if redness spreads. Arrange a routine review for a persistent or enlarging lump, bleeding, crusting or a change in colour. Urgent assessment is appropriate for marked swelling affecting breathing.

Ask whether the lesion is a keloid or another piercing-related problem, whether the jewellery should be removed, and which treatment is suitable for its position beside the nostril. Ask how recurrence will be reduced and what wound care is needed.