What should you know about piercing keloid removal?

A keloid is firm, raised scar tissue that grows beyond the original piercing site. It may itch, feel tender, or enlarge gradually, and it can occur on an earlobe, cartilage, nose, or other pierced area. It is different from a hypertrophic scar, which stays within the wound boundary. A new skin lump is not automatically a keloid, so examination is useful before choosing removal. Ongoing friction, pressure, or another piercing can keep the area irritated.

Do not cut, squeeze, or repeatedly traumatise the lump, and avoid re-piercing through or beside it without specialist advice. A dermatologist may recommend Steroid Injection Into The Skin, Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal), Fractional Laser Treatment, or Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment. Surgical options include Keloid Removal Surgery or Surgical Excision, usually with a plan to reduce the chance of regrowth. The best combination depends on size, location, symptoms, previous treatments, and your healing history.

Arrange assessment for a lump that keeps enlarging, bleeds, becomes painful, or interferes with jewellery, sleep, or movement. Seek prompt care for marked warmth, pus, spreading redness, or fever, which can indicate infection rather than a simple scar. Return after treatment if the area becomes raised again or develops persistent irritation.

Is this a keloid or another skin lump? Which treatment fits its size and location? What will be done to limit regrowth after removal? How should I care for the site, and when can jewellery be worn again? Should future piercings be avoided?