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What is the small ball of flesh growing next to the ear?

Nov 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
A small lump near the ear is commonly caused by sebaceous cysts, soft fibromas, common warts, lipomas, or swollen lymph nodes, most of which are benign but require proper evaluation to determine their nature. If the lump grows rapidly, becomes painful, ulcerates, or has an irregular shape, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. Sebaceous cysts result from blocked sebaceous glands leading to accumulation of sebum, and typically feel soft with a smooth surface.

Small flesh-like growths near the ear are commonly caused by sebaceous cysts, soft fibromas, common warts, lipomas, or swollen lymph nodes. These are mostly benign, but their exact nature should be confirmed. If the growth increases rapidly, becomes painful, ulcerates, or has an irregular shape, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

1. Sebaceous cyst: Formed due to blockage of sebaceous gland ducts leading to accumulation of sebum. It feels soft, has a smooth surface, and is usually painless. Treatment primarily involves surgical excision. If infection is present, anti-infective therapy should be given first, followed by surgery after inflammation subsides. Squeezing should be avoided to prevent spreading infection.

2. Soft fibroma: Commonly occurs in skin folds or areas subject to friction, resulting from benign proliferation of skin fibrous tissue. It is soft, skin-colored, and typically causes no discomfort. Treatment options include laser ablation or electrocautery, which are minimally invasive with quick recovery. Suitable for single or a few lesions.

3. Common wart: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The surface is rough and the texture firm, with potential for gradual enlargement and multiplication. Treatment includes topical retinoids or salicylic acid preparations, or physical methods such as cryotherapy or laser removal. Complete elimination is necessary to prevent recurrence.

4. Lipoma: Formed by excessive fat accumulation. It is soft, well-defined, mobile, and generally painless. Small, asymptomatic lipomas may not require treatment and can be monitored regularly. If it affects appearance or compresses surrounding tissues, complete surgical excision is recommended.

5. Swollen lymph nodes: Often triggered by infection in nearby tissues. They feel firm and may be tender. They usually shrink gradually once the infection is controlled. Treatment focuses on anti-infective therapy, with antibiotics selected based on the identified source. Persistent, painless enlargement requires further evaluation to rule out other underlying conditions.

Avoid frequently touching or squeezing the growth. Maintain local skin cleanliness and dryness, wear loose and breathable clothing to reduce friction, and refrain from self-medicating or using unverified home remedies. Monitor changes in size and appearance, and practice proper daily care to support health.

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