Keloid on a septum piercing: what to know

Keloids are raised scars that can continue growing outside the original wound. Near a septum piercing, the tissue may feel firm, itchy, tight or tender and can catch on jewellery. Irritation from movement, contact dermatitis, a small abscess or another nasal lump may look similar. A clinician can inspect the piercing channel and surrounding skin and ask about timing, jewellery material and previous scars.

Book an assessment with a dermatologist or clinician familiar with piercing-related skin problems. Do not squeeze the bump, push jewellery through it, pierce it again or use strong chemicals inside the nose. Clean only as advised and avoid unnecessary handling. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve Steroid Injection Into The Skin, Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal), Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment or Keloid Removal Surgery. Nasal anatomy and breathing comfort should be considered before any procedure.

Seek prompt care for increasing nasal pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, worsening swelling, persistent bleeding or trouble breathing through the nose. A rapidly changing lesion or skin breakdown also needs examination rather than home treatment.

Ask whether the tissue is a keloid or piercing irritation, whether jewellery should be removed, which treatment is suitable for the septum, how the inner nose will be protected and what follow-up is planned.