Dr. Lam Thien Kim, a specialist in pediatric surgery at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, explained that this congenital defect, while not affecting hearing, can cause self-consciousness in children, making surgery a recommended option. Following the removal of excess skin, tissue, and cartilage, the surgical team meticulously closed the incision in multiple layers. This technique aims to reduce tension on the skin, minimize scarring, and promote natural healing of the area in front of the ear.

The medical team operating on Thanh. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Thanh was discharged one day after the surgery, with the incision dry and showing no signs of bleeding.

Dr. Kim explained that preauricular skin tags are congenital defects resulting from abnormal ear development during the fetal stage. While most cases are benign, they can lead to self-consciousness in children as they mature. If the tags are not inflamed and do not impair function, doctors typically recommend surgery at an appropriate time, often before the child starts school or if the condition begins to affect their psychological well-being.

Images of Thanh's ear before surgery (left) and after surgery (right). Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Kim advised parents against attempting to remove or burn these skin tags at home or at non-specialized facilities. Such actions carry risks of bleeding, infection, or leaving behind cartilage remnants beneath the skin. If a child is born with this defect, parents should seek an evaluation from a pediatric surgery specialist to ensure proper assessment and appropriate intervention.

Minh Tam

*Patient's name has been changed