Keloid behind an ear piercing: what to know

Keloid tissue forms when healing produces more scar than the original piercing wound needs. Behind the ear, it may become firm, rounded and attached to the piercing site, with itching or tenderness. A small bump can also reflect irritation, trapped material or infection. A clinician can inspect its borders and skin changes rather than relying on a photograph.

Avoid pressure from headphones, masks or sleeping directly on the area, and do not pierce, drain or shave over the lump. Wash gently and keep hands off it. Dermatology treatments may include steroid injections, cryotherapy, pulsed dye laser or removal surgery. Removal alone does not prevent regrowth in every person, so ask about a plan after the procedure. Read about [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/) and [Keloid Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/keloid-excision/).

Get prompt advice for increasing warmth, throbbing pain, pus, spreading redness or fever. Book a dermatology appointment if the lump is enlarging, repeatedly catches on clothing or jewellery, or affects sleep. Seek urgent help if swelling spreads toward the face or is accompanied by breathing difficulty.

Ask what is causing the lump, whether the earring should stay in place, and whether treatment should start before removal. Discuss recurrence prevention, expected skin changes and how to protect the wound behind the ear.