Keloid Scar Treatment

What is Keloid Scar Treatment?

A keloid is a raised, firm scar that grows beyond the edges of the original wound. Keloids are more common in people with darker skin and often appear on the ear lobes, chest, shoulders and upper back after piercings, acne, surgery or minor injuries. They can be itchy, tender and cosmetically distressing. A hypertrophic scar is similar but stays within the wound edges and often improves with time. Keloid scar treatment at Ageless aims to flatten and soften the scar, ease symptoms and reduce the chance of it growing.

Who it may suit

• People with raised, itchy or growing scars
• Patients with ear keloids after piercing
• Those with chest, shoulder or back keloids after acne or injury
• People with hypertrophic scars after surgery or burns

Common Causes and Types

• Genetic tendency, often running in families
• Piercings, acne, vaccinations, cuts and surgical wounds
• Tension on the skin, such as on the chest and shoulders
• Infection or slow healing of the original wound

How the treatment is done

Dr. Nuwan examines the scar to confirm it is a keloid or hypertrophic scar and that it needs no other investigation. The most common first treatment is corticosteroid injection into the scar, repeated every 4 to 6 weeks. This may be combined with silicone gel or sheets, pressure, cryotherapy or laser to improve colour and texture. Surgical removal is only considered with additional treatment, because keloids can return larger after surgery alone.

Downtime and recovery

• Mild soreness at injection sites for a day or two
• Laser or cryotherapy may cause redness or blistering for several days
• Normal activities can usually continue

Risks and aftercare

Possible effects of steroid injections include thinning or lightening of the skin, small visible blood vessels and a dent if too much tissue softens. Keloids can recur even after successful treatment, so long-term follow-up is important.

• Use silicone gel or sheets as advised, often for several months
• Protect the scar from the sun
• Avoid new piercings or unnecessary procedures in keloid-prone areas
• Attend scheduled injection appointments