How to Remove Earlobe Scars

How to Remove Earlobe Scars
Photo Credit ear image by Connfetti from Fotolia.com

Scars that form on the earlobes may be caused by an untreated infection at a piercing site or from a surgical incision. Some of these scars form outside of the wound boundary, creating what is known as a keloid scar. The scarring can be unsightly and sometimes painful, depending on the severity and if the infection is still present. Removing these scars requires assistance from a licensed dermatologist and possibly a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Step 1

Apply pressure earrings or earlobe pressure dressing to the scar daily. Pressure applied to the scarring through this method will help flatten the scar and allow it to heal. Pressure dressings should be worn for eight to 24 hours, depending on doctor recommendation, according to US Pharmacist.

Step 2

Opt for laser resurfacing from your dermatologist. Laser resurfacing removes the outer layer of damaged skin, allowing for newer skin to take its place. According to Dr. Susan Taylor, laser resurfacing restricts blood flow to the scar, inhibiting its growth and causing shrinkage as treatments progress. Laser treatments may need to be repeated often for desired results, depending on severity of the scar.

Step 3

Allow your dermatologist to inject cortisteroid solution into the scar tissue. These injections slow down collagen formation at the scar site, causing the scar to shrink and preventing further scar formation. Cortisteroids are used in conjunction with laser therapies for best results.

Step 4

Apply a silicone gel sheet to the earlobe scar. Silicone gel sheets are available at your local pharmacy and come in pre-measured doses. According to Dr. Taylor, the exact reason why this treatment works is still unknown and further studies are being performed.

Step 5

Opt for surgical removal of the scar tissue. A plastic surgeon performs surgical excision of the scar using a scalpel and may follow up with radiation therapy using an X-ray device to deliver small doses of radiation to the surgery site. According to Dr. Taylor, this is a highly effective treatment in removing earlobe and other keloid scars.

References

Article reviewed by Greg Duran Last updated on: Jun 15, 2010

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