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What Causes A Small Lump In Front Of The Ear Causing Numbness?

Posted on Tue, 28 Jul 2015

Question: I had a facelift and rhino surgery 10 weeks ago. about a week ago I started noticing a small lumping front of my ear. I ignored it and I thought it was getting better. My PS is out of town over the 4th of July and I was busy because I am moving tomorrow to new house..BUT the last few days it has gotten bigger and bigger. Now it is the size of a small tangerine. My numbness around my ear is still numb but now the had lump it starting to be painful. It is very hard. I don't know what it is? My Dr returns next Tuesday, is it something I should be worried about? I can't sleep because I am now afraid?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (54 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Inflammatory lymph node...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

After going through the history I am of the opinion that you could be having an inflamed lymph node in front of the ear which is causing compression over the superficial nerves and thus the numbness. A complete physical examination of the swelling can aid in diagnosing the cause.

At present you would require a course of broad spectrum oral antibiotics and an OTC anti inflammatory medicine such as diclofenac or ibuprofen. If the pain and swelling worsen even after taking the above medicines consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Hope I have answered your query; I'll be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (17 minutes later)

Could it be a Parotid Tumor? Since it is so solid and hard?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Parotid tumor is unlikely...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

I doubt it to be a parotid tumor. I strongly feel it's an inflammatory lymph node. Even an inflamed lymph node can present as a firm swelling.

You can try antibiotics for at least five days and check for the progress in the growth of the swelling. If it's not reducing in size get an ultrasound and fine needle aspiration cytology done to confirm the diagnosis.

Hope this clarifies your doubts.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E