DR. MARTIN J. GIUFFRE (B.MS., MD., F.R.C.S.(C))

Ears

Abnormal Scarring after ear piercing

BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

*DISCLAIMER: This site contains graphic & surgical images that may be disturbing to some viewers.

This site is intended for individuals over the age of 18.

**Please note that none of the images posted throughout this site have been enhanced or photoshopped.

Abnormal Scarring:

After ear piercing, I developed scarring at the site of the ear piercing. This has formed a big lump. What can I do?

  • There are occasional patients that develop a scar at the site of their piercing.

  • This often follows an infection or allergic reaction to the earrings.

  • Sometimes the scar is quite small and will resolve on its own or responds to conservative treatment like a steroid injection

  • The scarring can become quite large producing a significant cosmetic deformity.

  • Surgical excision of the scars with local reconstruction will eliminate the scar although, 10% of patients will develop a thicker scar than desired.

  • Early treatment with steroid injections in the new scar is used to treat this risk.

Is this surgery covered by AHS (Alberta Health Services)?

The ear lobe procedures are not covered by AHS.

THE FOLLOWUP:

How often do I need to come back for a checkup after the surgery? 

Postoperative visits include:

  • 1 week visit

  • 6 week visit

If there are any patient concerns, Dr. Giuffre provides his home phone number for patient's direct access. 

After the 6 week visit, if there are any future requests for an appointment, they are made directly with Dr. Giuffre office and an expedited visit is arranged.

THE RISKS:

What are the risks of doing the procedure?

With any surgery there are surgical and anesthetic risks.

Aside from the rare risks of an anesthetic event, some of the general and specific surgical risks for this procedure would include:

  • Scarring

  • Infection of the incision

  • Swelling and bruising- this is very minimal

  • Sensation changes to the ear for up to 6 weeks

  • Discomfort

  • Time off school for children and work for adults 

  • Bleeding (hematoma)

  • Asymmetry

This list is not complete.

**During the consultation with the patient, Dr. Giuffre will outline and explain each of the risks in detail.