Will visit derm soon but scaly small bump on ear lobe for years. i remove it, it comes back. same size, no other symptoms. could this be skin cancer?

Bump on ear: Your dermatologist will. E able to examine you and if the lesion appears cancerous, it can be sent for biopsy

Maybe: You give a good history for actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma- none of which are likely to be very advanced, yet, by your description. A shave biopsy-which is quite simple, quick and involves only a moment of discomfort, should be done. Treatment might involve a surgical excision if it's a Ca. Trust that to an ABPS-certified plastic surgeon/ ASPS member.