I treated the keloids on both ears with surgical excision and injections of steroids and other medications every three to four weeks. On the left ear, a pressure earring was applied. The pressure earring can be helpful by decreasing blood flow to help the keloid from recurring. I did one ear and waited before doing the other to see how the patient’s body reacted, to ensure a better result.
In the photo, the right earlobe is one month post op and one injection.
The left earlobe is six months out and after six injections. The pressure earring was used for one month.
Keloids result from the overproduction of collagen at the site of an injury. In this case, it was after the patient pierced his ears. Keloids cause disfigurement, but also can be painful and itchy. Keloids have a genetic component. The good news is that keloids do not turn into cancer.
More than one type of treatment may be necessary to get rid of a keloid.
I recommend taking steps to prevent keloids!
- If you are considering a body piercing or a tattoo, try a test spot first, wear a pressure earring if you feel a thickening after ear piercing.
- Tell the practitioner if you have had keloids in the past.
- Keloids take time to appear, so wear sunscreen to prevent the skin from darkening after a wound.
- As soon as the wound heals, use silicone sheets or gels which can prevent keloids from forming.
