Can I Remove a Hard Lump from My Ear Piercing? ENT or Dermatology?

Q: Can I Remove a Hard Lump from My Ear Piercing? ENT or Dermatology?

Dear Inquirer： <br>Based on your inquiry, it appears that you may have developed a keloid on your earlobe, which is often caused by localized hypertrophic scarring. <br>If the keloid becomes too large and local injection treatments are unlikely to reverse the condition, surgical

Ear bone issues?

5.6 years ago, I had a cartilage piercing.
Later, it became inflamed with blood and pus, so I stopped wearing earrings.
There is now a hard lump at the site of the piercing.
Can I have it surgically removed now? Should I see an otolaryngologist or a dermatologist? Will I need to be hospitalized after the removal?

Wawa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/22

Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology

Dear Inquirer:
Based on your inquiry, it appears that you may have developed a keloid on your earlobe, which is often caused by localized hypertrophic scarring.
If the keloid becomes too large and local injection treatments are unlikely to reverse the condition, surgical excision may be recommended.
Post-surgery, hospitalization is not necessarily required; however, at our hospital, we advise an overnight stay to prevent postoperative infection.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chien-Chih Chen, Physician, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University

Reply Date: 2010/02/22

More Info

When it comes to the removal of a hard lump from an ear piercing, it's essential to understand the underlying reasons for the lump and the appropriate medical specialties involved in its treatment. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be dealing with a keloid or a hypertrophic scar, which can develop after an ear piercing, especially if there was a history of inflammation or infection.

Which Specialist to See: ENT or Dermatology?
1. Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: An ENT specialist is well-equipped to handle issues related to the ear, including complications from piercings. They can assess the lump's characteristics, determine if it is causing any functional issues, and discuss surgical options if necessary. Given that the lump is located at the site of a previous piercing, an ENT may be the most appropriate first point of contact.

2. Dermatologist: A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions and can also evaluate the lump. They may be particularly helpful if the lump is related to skin issues, such as keloids or other dermatological conditions. If the lump is primarily a skin-related issue, a dermatologist may provide more targeted treatment options.

Surgical Removal and Hospitalization
Regarding the surgical removal of the lump, it is often an outpatient procedure. This means that you typically would not need to stay overnight in the hospital. The procedure may involve local anesthesia, and the recovery time is usually short. However, if there are complications or if the lump is larger or more complex, the doctor may recommend a brief observation period.

What to Expect During the Consultation
During your consultation with either an ENT or a dermatologist, you can expect the following:
- Medical History Review: The doctor will ask about your medical history, including any previous infections, treatments, and the duration of the lump's presence.

- Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the lump, checking for signs of infection, tenderness, or other concerning features.

- Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, imaging studies or a biopsy may be necessary to determine the nature of the lump.

- Treatment Options: Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options may include:
- Surgical Removal: If the lump is bothersome or if there are concerns about its nature.

- Injections: For keloids or hypertrophic scars, corticosteroid injections may help reduce size and discomfort.

- Observation: If the lump is not causing any issues, the doctor may recommend monitoring it over time.

Conclusion
In summary, you should consider seeing an ENT specialist first, as they are experienced in dealing with ear-related issues, including complications from piercings. They can evaluate the lump and determine the best course of action, whether that involves surgical removal or referral to a dermatologist for further evaluation. Remember, it’s essential to address any concerns you have about the lump, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes. If you have any additional symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or changes in the lump, be sure to mention these during your visit.

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