bump under skin on earlobe

My 18 y.o. son tried to get his earlobes pierced but the piercer wouldn't do it because he has lumps under his skin where she would be putting the holes. They're not visible, you can only detect them by feeling with your fingers.

Does anyone know if it's still safe to pierce with these bumps under the skin? She suggested he go to a dermatologist. I made an appt, but since they're under the skin rather than on the skin, I'm not sure if a dermatologist would know what they are. TIA!