Radiofrequency tissue volume reduction for treatment of auricle keloids

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Keloids are often refractive to treatment, and recurrences occur quite frequently. Radiofrequency tissue volume reduction (RFTVR) is a surgical technology that induces extensive fibrosis at the target tissues. METHODS: We applied RFTVR in 14 patients (19 auricles, 5 patients treated bilaterally; 9 female, 5 male; range, 10-66 years) with keloids of the auricle. Keloids were located at the earlobe in 4 patients (5 auricles), helix in 9 patients (12 auricles), and at both earlobe and helix in 1 patient (2 auricles). In 6 patients (8 auricles) RFTVR was the sole treatment modality applied, and in 7 patients (10 auricles) intralesional steroid injection was also performed. Patients underwent one to seven sessions of RFTVR. Patients were followed up between 2 and 92 months postoperatively (median, 24.5 months). RESULTS: Good cosmetic results were achieved in 10 of 14 patients (13 auricles). Three patients (5 auricles) were refractive to treatment, and 1 patient (1 auricle) showed progressive disease despite treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency tissue volume reduction may be considered as a new, minimally invasive treatment option for keloids of the auricle.