What It Is

Defining Pressure Earrings

→ Pressure earrings are specialized medical devices designed to apply continuous pressure on the earlobe or ear area after surgical removal of a keloid scar.

→ By applying constant compression, these earrings limit blood flow to the scar tissue, which reduces oxygen and nutrient supply. This slows fibroblast activity, preventing excess collagen from forming and thereby reducing the risk of keloid recurrence.

→ They are considered one of the most effective preventive treatments after surgical excision of ear keloids.

Key Characteristics

• Made of silicone-lined metal or plastic for comfort and durability
• Designed to deliver uniform compression without cutting into the skin
• Customizable to fit ear shape and keloid size
• Typically worn for 12–24 hours per day over several months

Why It’s Done

Main Reasons for Treatment

➡ Prevention of Recurrence – Keloids have a very high recurrence rate after surgery. Pressure earrings significantly reduce this risk.

➡ Scar Flattening – Helps keep the ear skin flat and smooth following removal of keloids.

➡ Improved Appearance – Ensures better cosmetic outcomes after keloid surgery.

➡ Non-Invasive Management – Offers a mechanical, non-drug option for controlling scar regrowth.

➡ Combination Therapy – Used alongside steroid injections, cryotherapy, or radiation therapy for best long-term results.

Alternatives

Non-Medical Options

• Silicone Gel Sheets – Can soften scars but less effective for preventing keloid regrowth in ears.
• Camouflage Makeup – Temporary cover-up without therapeutic effect.

Medical Alternatives

→ Other scar control treatments include:

• Corticosteroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and scar tissue buildup.
• 5-FU Injections – Inhibit fibroblast activity in resistant keloids.
• Laser Therapy – Improves redness and texture but does not prevent recurrence alone.
• Cryotherapy – Freezes scar tissue, though less suitable for larger ear keloids.
• Radiation Therapy – Often used post-surgery in severe or recurring cases.

Preparation

Before Using Pressure Earrings

➡ Keloid Removal Surgery – Pressure earrings are typically fitted right after surgical excision of a keloid.

➡ Ear Measurement – The device is sized and shaped to fit the patient’s ear precisely.

➡ Medical Guidance – A dermatologist or plastic surgeon explains usage duration, cleaning routine, and monitoring schedule.

➡ Skin Readiness – The wound must be cleaned and closed properly before pressure is applied.

➡ Patient Commitment – Patients are advised that consistent use is essential for effectiveness.

How It’s Done

Application Process

Step 1: Surgical Removal
→ Keloid is surgically excised by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Step 2: Fitting the Pressure Earring
→ A custom-made or pre-fabricated pressure earring is placed on the earlobe or ear cartilage.

• Ensures uniform compression across the wound site
• Can be adjusted for comfort and pressure intensity

Step 3: Wearing Schedule
→ Worn at least 12 hours daily, preferably up to 24 hours, for several months.

• Duration varies from 3–12 months, depending on keloid size and recurrence risk

Step 4: Monitoring and Adjustments
→ Regular follow-up visits ensure proper fit, pressure balance, and scar response.
→ Adjustments are made to avoid skin irritation or excessive pressure.

Recovery

Immediate Recovery

• Mild soreness or discomfort during the first days of wearing
• Possible temporary redness or skin indentation from pressure

Long-Term Recovery

→ With consistent use, scars remain flat and less noticeable.

→ Ear keloids have a recurrence rate as high as 45–100% without pressure therapy, but with pressure earrings, recurrence rates can drop to 10–30%.

→ Recovery involves a combination of compression, injections, and good wound care for optimal success.

Complications

Possible Risks

• Skin Irritation – Friction or pressure may cause redness or minor wounds if poorly fitted.
• Discomfort – Prolonged wearing may feel tight or uncomfortable.
• Compliance Difficulty – Some patients struggle to wear them for long hours daily.
• Partial Recurrence – Keloids may still return in some cases, though smaller and less severe.
• Infection – Rare, but possible if the device is not kept clean.

Treatment Options in Korea

Advanced Scar Management Expertise

South Korea has pioneered the combined use of surgical excision and pressure therapy for ear keloids, with excellent clinical outcomes.

Why Korea is a Leader in Pressure Earring Therapy

➡ Custom-Fitted Devices – Korean clinics often create tailor-made earrings for each patient.
➡ Integration with Combination Therapy – Pressure earrings are combined with steroid injections, cryotherapy, or laser treatment to minimize recurrence.
➡ Post-Plastic Surgery Culture – With Korea’s high rate of cosmetic procedures, doctors are highly experienced in scar prevention methods.
➡ Modern Materials – Clinics use lightweight, skin-friendly, medical-grade silicone and hypoallergenic metals.

Popular Uses in Korea

• Earlobe Piercing Keloids – The most common type treated with pressure earrings
• Cartilage Keloids – Often after ear piercings on the upper ear
• Post-Surgical Ear Keloids – Managed with immediate pressure earring use after excision

Patient Experience in Korea

• Fittings are done by dermatologists or plastic surgeons shortly after keloid removal
• Patients receive detailed wearing schedules and care instructions
• Follow-ups include progress checks and combined treatments like injections
• Clinics emphasize comfort, customization, and cosmetic results

Conclusion

Pressure earrings for keloid treatment in Korea are a gold-standard preventive measure against keloid recurrence after ear surgery. By applying continuous compression, they minimize blood supply to scar tissue, preventing excessive collagen buildup and keeping scars flat.

Korean dermatologists and surgeons integrate pressure earrings with steroid injections, cryotherapy, or lasers, offering one of the most comprehensive and effective approaches worldwide. For patients with ear keloids, Korea provides advanced, reliable, and cosmetically satisfying treatment options that significantly improve long-term outcomes.