Keloids on Earlobes: Concerns and Treatment Options

Questions about earlobe keloids?

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about keloids.
I was unaware that I had a predisposition for keloids because my past injuries (including a mole removal on my chest) did not result in keloids.
However, three years ago, I developed a keloid on my right ear after getting my ears pierced.
Upon noticing it, I immediately removed the earring and have been regularly receiving steroid injections from a dermatologist, but it has recurred intermittently, so I continue the treatment, approximately every few months depending on the recurrence.
Recently, about a month after my last injection, I noticed that my right earlobe has shrunk and become noticeably thinner.
I'm unsure if this change occurred after the last injection or if it was already happening without my noticing.
In any case, this has made me very anxious about whether my earlobe will continue to shrink until it disappears; it has also made me feel self-conscious, leading me to cover my ears with my hair.
I followed up with my dermatologist, who assured me that it would not disappear and that there is a chance it could return to its original thickness, but I am still worried, so I would like to seek a second opinion: 1.
It has been about a month since my last injection, and the keloid is currently gone (though there is a scar, which I don't mind).
Will my earlobe continue to shrink or even disappear? 2.
Will my earlobe grow back? If it does not grow back, what methods are available for reconstructing the earlobe? Thank you, Doctor!

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/11/19

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
It won't disappear.
2.
Currently, without seeing the images, I cannot assess the actual situation to determine if reconstruction is necessary, or if an in-person consultation is required to find out.

Reply Date: 2014/11/19

More Info

Keloids, or hypertrophic scars, are raised areas of scar tissue that form at the site of an injury. They can be particularly concerning when they develop on visible areas of the body, such as the earlobes. Your experience with keloids following ear piercing is not uncommon, as some individuals are more predisposed to developing keloids due to genetic factors or skin type.
1. Concerns about Ear Lobes and Keloids: It is understandable to be worried about the appearance of your earlobe, especially after receiving steroid injections to manage the keloid. The thinning of your earlobe after treatment can be a side effect of steroid injections, which are often used to reduce inflammation and the size of keloids. While your dermatologist has reassured you that your earlobe will not disappear and may regain some of its original thickness, it is natural to have concerns about the long-term effects of treatment.

2. Will Your Earlobe Continue to Shrink?: After receiving steroid injections, it is possible for the surrounding tissue to become thinner, but this does not necessarily mean that your earlobe will continue to shrink indefinitely. The body has a remarkable ability to heal, and in many cases, the skin can regain some of its original thickness over time. However, the extent of this recovery can vary from person to person.
3. Regrowth of Earlobe: As for whether your earlobe will grow back to its original size, this largely depends on individual healing responses and the severity of the keloid. Some patients do experience a return to a more normal appearance after treatment, while others may find that their earlobe remains somewhat altered.
4. Reconstruction Options: If you find that your earlobe does not return to your desired appearance, there are surgical options available for reconstruction. These can include procedures to remove the keloid and reconstruct the earlobe using local tissue or grafts. Consulting with a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist specializing in scar management can provide you with more tailored options based on your specific situation.

5. Preventive Measures: To prevent the recurrence of keloids, it is essential to avoid any further trauma to the area. If you decide to repierce your ears in the future, consider consulting with a professional who has experience with keloid-prone skin. They may recommend alternative piercing techniques or methods to minimize the risk of keloid formation.

6. Psychological Impact: It is also important to address the emotional and psychological impact that keloids can have. Feeling self-conscious about your appearance is common, and seeking support from friends, family, or even a counselor can be beneficial.
In summary, while there are concerns regarding the appearance and health of your earlobe after keloid treatment, there are also many avenues for management and potential improvement. Regular follow-ups with your dermatologist and open communication about your concerns can help you navigate this journey more comfortably. If you are considering further treatment options or have ongoing concerns, seeking a second opinion from a specialist can provide additional reassurance and guidance.

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