Keloids on the earlobes or the cartilage can be frustrating and noticeable. These raised, often itchy scars form after a piercing, injury, or acne. While there’s no guaranteed solution, several effective treatments can significantly reduce their size and improve their appearance. This guide explores treatment for keloid on the ear, focusing on surgery, a commonly considered approach for keloids on the ear.

What are Keloids?

Keloid is an oversized scar tissue that starts at the original injury site but continues to grow. It’s more common in people with darker skin tones and those with a family history of keloids. Contrary to ordinary scars that experience gradual flattening, keloids grow and become itchy or tender.

Treatment Options for Ear Keloids

There’s no single “best” treatment for everyone. The most successful strategy frequently comprises the combined use of several methods dependent on the dimensions, the location of the keloid, and your particular case. Here’s a breakdown of some common treatments:

• Corticosteroid Injections: These injections are anti-inflammatory medicines. It can last for 3 to 6 months. A doctor injects the keloid with medications that reduce inflammation and decrease the scar size. Results may differ, and multiple treatments might be required.
• Silicone Gel Sheets: These sheets cover the scar from keloid after it has been exposed daily for several hours. They create a gentle pressure and a relatively moist ambient, which may prevent the formation of scar contracture.
• Cryotherapy: This particular treatment method involves spraying liquid nitrogen on the keloid. It destroys some scar tissue cells, making the keloid less elevated and complex.
• Laser Therapy: Different types of lasers can be used. Some target the blood vessels supplying the keloid, while others aim to break down scar tissue. This treatment might be combined with others for optimal results.

How to Get Rid of A Keloid Ear With Surgery?

Surgery is indeed an effective technique for removing keloids. However, it should be noted that it also has its limitations. Due to the high recurrence rate of keloid, especially on the ears, they may grow back after surgical procedures.

Surgical Techniques

There are two main surgical approaches for keloid removal from the ear:

• Scalpel Excision: This is done by removing the keloid tissue using the scalpel.
• Surgery: This method utilizes a microscope to assess each layer and remove the layer in thin layers to ensure complete keloid tissue removal.

Considerations for Surgery

Here is a list of a few factors one needs to consider for a successful surgery rate: 

• Recurrence: As mentioned earlier, keloids have a high chance of returning after surgery. It would help if you had a detailed discussion with your surgeon regarding this risk. Depending upon your condition and after-surgery care, the surgeon can provide practical ways to minimize with other combined treatments.  
• Scarring: When competing with a scar from a surgical operation, when appropriate steps like minimizing this scar do not accompany it, it exposes the final scar on the human body. Depending on the surgeon’s skill and your body’s healing process, this scar might be less noticeable than the keloid, but it’s essential to be aware of this possibility.
• Recovery: Ear surgery usually involves pain, swelling, and bruising. Stitches might be removed within a week; healing can take several weeks.

Who is a Candidate for Surgery?

Surgery might be considered for:

• Keloids that are large or significantly impact appearance or comfort.
• Keloids that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Finding the Right Surgeon

Choosing an experienced and licensed plastic surgeon is essential for keloid removal. It is crucial to avoid any complications during surgery. Look for a private ENT specialist in London with expertise and a successful rate with keloid ear surgeries. During your consultation, discuss your goals for the surgery to provide the surgeon with your expectations. 

Living with Keloids

While keloids can be frustrating, several treatment options can offer significant improvement. Complete removal with no chance of recurrence may only sometimes be achievable. However, by working with a doctor to explore the best treatment for keloid on the ear, you can manage your keloid and improve its appearance.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Early Intervention: Treatment sooner after the keloid forms might improve outcomes.
• Sun Protection: Keloids can darken with sun exposure. Use sunscreen regularly to prevent this.
• Manage Expectations: Be realistic about the results and understand that keloid management is often a long-term process.
• Communication is Key: Communication with your doctor is essential throughout your treatment journey.

By understanding the treatment options and managing expectations, you can take control of your keloid and achieve a more comfortable and confident appearance.

Conclusion 

If you have noted a keloid starting after your piercing, creating a wound, or hyperpigmentation of your skin, you should schedule an appointment with a certified surgeon for more information. Select ENT LDN for your nasal surgery if you want the mastery and practice of our surgeon in this field. They will evaluate your situation and guide you toward the most appropriate plan of treatment. Visit their website to know more about their treatments and raise the possibility for your keloids to become less visible.