How do I get rid of a lump in earlobe?
The first stage to removing a lump within the earlobe is to first identify the lump.
There are many types of lumps that can appear on the earlobe, typical earlobe lumps include;
Cyst
In most cases, a lump in the earlobe tends to be a benign epidermoid cyst which whilst not a medical cause for concern, it can become uncomfortable and catch on things such as earbuds and hair.
Cause
The cause of a cyst in the earlobe is often due to excess oil from the oil glands causing a build-up beneath the skin.
Treatment
Skin cysts can disappear on their own over time but many seek surgical removal under a local anaesthetic.
Keloid Scar
Keloid scars are lumps of excess scar tissue which can occur after ear piercing. Whilst keloid scars are painless, they can gradually increase in size which can result in pressure-related pain whilst also being unsightly.
Cause
Keloid scars are overgrown scars that develop after minor skin damage. They have the tendency to grow larger than the original scar due to the overproduction of collagen. [1]
Treatment
Keloid scars are notoriously tricky to treat as they have a high recurrence rate. If the keloid scar is surgically removed, the wound created to do this has a risk of keloid regrowth. Steroid injections are a popular method but a course of treatment is recommended. Compression treatment can be helpful for keloid scars on the earlobe.
Acne
It is not uncommon for acne pimples to form within the earlobe. Acne can form on any area of the body with oil-secreting pores, including the earlobes. It will appear just like an acne spot would appear on your face. [2]
Cause
Acne can form in the ear if excess oil is unable to escape or if bacteria is growing in a clogged pore. Bacteria build up can be caused by sticking your finger in your ear or using earbuds /headphones that are not cleaned often. [3]
Treatment
Whilst earlobe acne will go away on its own, due to the sensitive nature of the ear, acne in this location has to be treated with care. Usually, typical acne topical solutions will help to reduce and treat acne on the earlobe. In more severe cases, antibiotics or extraction may be required.
Do I need treatment for earlobe cyst or lump in the earlobe?
Most earlobe lumps and bumps will go away over time. In some cases, the lump in the earlobe may become a nuisance or just cosmetically undesirable. It is in these cases that removal is considered.
If the lump in the earlobe becomes increasingly painful or larger in size then it may be best to visit your GP to ensure there are no underlying causes.
What is the best way to get rid of a lump in the earlobe?
The best method of removal for a lump in the earlobe will first come down to what the cause of the lump is.
For cysts then surgical excision is often the best method. Keloid scars often require steroid treatment whereas a lump in the earlobe caused by acne is best treated with topical solutions.
It is not advisable to attempt DIY treatment at home by squeezing or popping an earlobe cyst. This could cause an increased risk of infection and prominent scarring.
Summary
A number of things could cause lumps in the earlobe. The most common types of lump in the earlobe include benign cysts, acne or keloid scarring. Earlobe lump removal treatments include surgical excision under local anaesthetic, steroid injections or topical solutions.
Our expert surgeons and skin team at The Private Clinic are very experienced in treating earlobe lumps and will ensure that your lump is correctly diagnosed before attempting treatment.
Ear Lump Removal Clinics near me
We are able to offer earlobe lump removal treatments at our clinics in
Why Choose The Private Clinic?
Expert advice
The Private Clinic has been treating patients for over 40 years with thousands of people placing their trust in us each year. We have a team of expert medical practitioners with years of experience. Our innovative treatment choice means you will be offered the most advanced minimally invasive treatment options.
Outstanding Care
Our earlobe lump removal services are designed to give you peace of mind. All patients will receive a high level of dedicated care with their expert surgeon and nursing team before, during and long after every procedure. Our aftercare promise means we are always contactable with a 24 hour helpline to ensure you are always in the best of hands.
Patient Satisfaction
We have one of the highest TrustPilot 5 star ratings due to our focus on patient care and quality results. 98% of our patients would recommend us to their friends and family.
Book a consultation
To find out more about our range of ear lump removal treatments or to book an appointment with our specialists give us a call on 0333 920 2471 or use our online contact form.
Sources
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British Skin Foundation – Keloids
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Medical News Today – Pimple on earlobe
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Healthline – Pimple in Ear: How it happens and How to treat it