Ear Keloid Removal

Keloids are firm, rubbery growths due to overactive scar formation. On the ear, they can occur in the cartilage or earlobe. Keloids occur due to trauma or infection to the skin - such as from an ear piercing or infection. Keloids can grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound, become raised and can distort the shape of the ear. They can also be itchy or painful.

Dr Andrew (Aung) Thant offers surgical excision in combination with supplementary techniques to remove the keloid and minimize the chance of recurrence. He has been successfully treating ear keloids for many years. He is an accredited skin cancer doctor with the Skin Cancer College of Australasia.

Some patients have put off treating their keloids after having experienced painful steroid injections. The treatments here are done with local anaesthetic, so there is minimal pain. 

How to book: 

• First, send us an email with a photo of your keloid/s and information about any previous treatment you have had. 
• Dr Andrew will let you know if your keloid is suitable for treatment with us and give you an exact quote. 
• You can also book a consult with Dr Andrew if you want to see him in person. Standard consult fees apply. 

Fees: 

• Surgical removal of keloid: email us for an exact quote. The fee depends on the size, location and number of keloids. 
• Generally, with Medicare, the fee would be $550 to $700 for one ear or $1000 to $1200 for both ears. Without Medicare, the fee is $1000 to $1500 for one or both ears.
• Review and maintenance treatment: The fee is $150 and your Medicare rebate is $42 (resulting in a gap of $110). Maintenance treatment is important to prevent recurrence of the keloid.

FAQs:

I've previously had steroid injections which didn't work that well. Can my ear keloids still be treated?  Yes, depending on the location and extent of your keloids, they can be successfully removed and treated here.

What is the recurrence rate?  It would be rare for your keloids to recur if you follow the treatment plan with Dr Andew.

What is the after care following surgical removal?  You will be given more detailed instructions at your appointment. In general, you will need paracetamol (up to 8 per day). You will need to keep the dressing dry for a few days. Strata med scar gel will be beneficial. If you are a side sleeper, you can still sleep on that ear if tolerated.