A technique for auricular keloid core excision using a skin biopsy punch

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Keloids in the auricular region are a common cosmetic concern, often arising from ear piercing or injury.
• Surgical intervention combined with conservative management is frequently required for auricular keloids.
• The established "hollowing out method" for auricular keloids preserves surrounding skin to reduce wound tension, but demands surgical precision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel technique for auricular keloid removal.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of keloid core excision using a skin biopsy punch.

Main Methods:

• The study included four female patients aged 18–29 years with auricular keloids.
• Keloid core excision was performed using a skin biopsy punch under local anesthesia.
• The procedure focused on excising the keloid core while preserving the overlying skin.

Main Results:

• The utilization of a skin biopsy punch significantly reduced the overall operating time.
• The technique effectively removed the keloid without causing any ear deformity.
• Histological examination of the excised keloid cores was performed.

Conclusions:

• Keloid core excision with a skin biopsy punch is presented as a valuable surgical approach.
• This method offers a potentially simpler and faster alternative for treating auricular keloids.
• Further studies may be warranted to confirm long-term outcomes and applicability across diverse patient populations.