| Small cysts on the back of the ear at the site of the piercing are normal for up to several months after the time of the piercing; they typically contain small amounts of normal bodily fluid like concentrations of white blood cells, and are a normal sign of healing. One should only become alarmed at cysts on the ear if abnormal pain, size, and/or color is observed on/around the cyst. This would be an early sign of infection, and should be treated as soon as possible. To easily treat such an issue before it becomes serious, one should clean the area with antibacterial soap or solution or hydrogen peroxide and apply a triple antibiotic ointment such as neosporin directly to the site (generic brand ointment works just as well and about half the price, as long as it contains the same type and amount of active ingredients). Do this once or twice a day (right after showering and right before bed works great). If this simple treatment does not cause the cyst(s) to decrease in size after a day or two, one can go a step further and physically drain excess fluids from the cyst(s). To do so, clean the area as mentioned before and gently but firmly pop the cyst using a needle sterilized with alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibacterial solution. Bleeding at this point is normal. Once again clean the area, gently blot dry and apply antibacterial ointment. Continue to perform the cleaning process for several more days or until you are comfortable that your ears are once again healthy. *Some medical professionals advise against the use of hydrogen peroxide for such treatments only because it kills healthy cells in addition to bacterial cells. However, for purposes of short-term wound treatment such as this, hydrogen peroxide proves effective in quickly removing harmful substances (like pus) without permanent damage to epidermal cells on ear cartilage. Damaged cells will almost always regenerate in healthy, non-cancerous skin. I have 3 cartilage piercings in addition to 4 lobe piercings and have extensive experince in performing, cleaning and treating various types of piercings. Further questions or concerns? Feel free to email me at jordanzloty@yahoo.com |