What is a scar?

A scar is the body's natural response to healing after skin injury, characterized by fibrous tissue that replaces normal skin. They may appear anywhere on the body and can vary in texture, color, and size. The final appearance of a scar is influenced by factors such as skin type, injury severity, age, and nutritional status.

There are 5 types of scars:

Hypertrophic Scars: Raised scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound. They often improve over time but may require treatment if they are prominent.
Keloid Scars: Thick, raised scars that extend beyond the original wound site. They are more common in individuals with darker skin and can be persistent, often requiring multiple treatment options.
Atrophic Scars: These scars appear sunken or pitted due to loss of underlying structures like fat or muscle. Commonly associated with acne or chickenpox.
Contractures: Occur when a large area of skin is damaged, most commonly seen in burns, causing tightness that can limit movement.
Stretch Marks (Striae): Result from rapid skin stretching due to factors like pregnancy or weight changes. While they are a form of scarring, they typically fade over time.

What are the common symptoms of keloid?

Keloids may not always cause pain, but they can be accompanied by:

Itching: Many people report itching in the affected area.
Discomfort: Keloids can be sensitive to touch and may feel tender.
Aesthetic Concerns: The prominent appearance of keloids can lead to self-esteem issues.’

What are the causes and risk factors for keloids?

Keloids can occur for several reasons, including:

Genetic Predisposition: A family history of keloids significantly increases the risk, suggesting a genetic component to their formation. Individuals with first-degree relatives who have keloids are more likely to develop them themselves
Skin Type: Keloids are more prevalent in individuals with darker skin tones, particularly those of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent. Studies indicate that these populations can develop keloids 4.5 to 16 times more frequently than those with lighter skin
Age: The peak incidence of keloid formation occurs in individuals aged between 10 and 30 years. However, they can develop at any age, including in infants and older adults
Previous Keloid Formation: Individuals who have previously developed keloids are at a higher risk for future occurrences, especially after any new skin injury
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause may contribute to keloid development due to their effect on the healing process. The role of female hormones has been well studied. Newer studies have also demonstrated role of male hormones particularly androgens have also being documented

Keloids can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. While professional scar removal treatment is often necessary for significant improvement, incorporating self-care strategies can enhance your comfort and help manage the appearance of keloids. Here are some effective self-care tips:

Keep the Area Clean and Moisturized

Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild soap to clean the keloid and surrounding skin daily. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the area.
Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. This can help minimize itching and discomfort.

Avoid irritation

Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing over the keloid to prevent friction and irritation.
Limit Sun Exposure: Protect the keloid from direct sunlight. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when going outdoors, as UV exposure can darken keloids.

Use Silicone Gel Sheets or Dressings

Silicone Sheets: These can help flatten keloids over time. Apply them as directed and keep them in place for the recommended duration.
Pressure Dressings: In some cases, using pressure dressings can reduce keloid size. Consult for the scar removal treatment with your healthcare provider about this option.

Manage Itching and Discomfort

Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the keloid to relieve itching and inflammation.
Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce itching and swelling. Consult your doctor before use.

Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support skin health.
Balanced Diet: Incorporate foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, and protein, which are essential for skin repair and healing.

Avoid Picking or Scratching

Picking at keloids can worsen their appearance and lead to further irritation. Try to resist the urge and keep your nails trimmed.

Consider Stress Management Techniques

‍Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress, which can help improve hormonal health. As noted earlier, hormones do have a role in keloid formation.

Follow Professional Advice

Consult Your Doctor: Always discuss any self-care strategies with your healthcare provider, especially if you’re considering new treatments or products.

Keloids or scars are generally diagnosed based on a physical examination and the patient's medical history. However, there are some diagnostic tests and assessments that may be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. Here are the common diagnostic methods for keloids:

Physical Examination

Visual Inspection: A dermatologist will assess the keloid's size, shape, color, and texture. They will also check for symptoms like itching or tenderness.
Medical History: The doctor will inquire about the patient's history of skin injuries, surgeries, or acne, as well as any family history of keloid formation.

Biopsy

Tissue Sample: In some cases, a small sample of the keloid tissue may be taken for laboratory analysis. This is typically done to rule out other conditions, such as skin cancer or other types of scars.
Histopathological Analysis: The biopsy can be examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of keloid tissue, which is characterized by excessive collagen deposition.

Imaging studies

Ultrasound: Although not commonly used for diagnosis, ultrasound can be helpful in evaluating the depth and extent of the keloid, particularly if it is large or affects deeper tissues.

Allergy testing

Patch Testing: If there’s suspicion that an allergic reaction may have contributed to the keloid formation, patch testing may be conducted to identify potential allergens.

Keloid Treatment Options at Smart Surgeon

Keloids can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness, but at Smart Surgeon, for keloid scar treatment in Trivandrum, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options designed to address keloids effectively. Our expert team utilizes advanced techniques tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs. Here’s an overview of the keloid treatment options available at Smart Surgeon.

Surgical Excision

Surgical scar removal process involves the removal of the keloid and some surrounding tissue. This is often recommended for larger keloids or those that cause significant discomfort.

Procedure: The surgeon will carefully remove the scar, and the area will be closed with sutures. This method may be accompanied by other treatments to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Benefits: Provides immediate results by physically removing the keloid.
Considerations: There is a risk of recurrence, so follow-up treatments may be necessary.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections are a non-surgical option that can effectively reduce the size and appearance of keloids.

Procedure: A corticosteroid solution is injected directly into the keloid, helping to flatten it and reduce inflammation.
Benefits: Minimally invasive with little to no downtime; multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Considerations: Some patients may experience temporary skin thinning at the injection site.

Laser Therapy

Keloid Laser treatment is a popular option for keloid management, particularly for those seeking to minimize scars without invasive surgery.

Procedure: High-energy laser treatment for scars are used to target the keloid, helping to reduce its size and improve skin texture.
Benefits: Effective laser therapy for scars for flattening keloids and reducing pigmentation; minimal discomfort and recovery time.
Considerations: Several laser therapy for scars sessions may be required to achieve desired results.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid to reduce its size and improve its appearance.

Procedure: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the keloid, causing it to freeze and eventually shrink.
Benefits: Effective for smaller keloids and can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results.
Considerations: Possible side effects include temporary redness or blistering in the treated area.

Silicone Gel Sheets and Dressings

Silicone gel sheets can be an effective adjunct treatment for managing keloids.

Application: These sheets are placed over the keloid and worn for several hours a day. They help flatten and soften the scar tissue over time.
Benefits: Non-invasive and easy to use; can be combined with other treatments for enhanced effectiveness.
Considerations: Consistent use is essential for best results, and they may take several weeks to show improvement.

Combination Therapy

Often, the best results come from a combination of treatments tailored to the individual’s keloid characteristics.

Examples: Surgical excision followed by steroid injections, or laser therapy combined with silicone sheets.
Benefits: Customizable treatment plans can address the keloid’s size, shape, and symptoms effectively.
Considerations: Requires careful planning and coordination with the healthcare team.

Keloid Treatment Process at Smart Surgeon

Consultation and Assessment

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with our expert team. During this initial visit, we will:

Discuss your medical history and any previous treatments you may have undergone.
Perform a physical examination of the keloids to assess their size, location, and characteristics.
Explain the available treatment options and help you understand what to expect.

Treatment Plan Development

After the assessment, we will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your goals and needs. We prioritize open communication and ensure that you are fully informed and comfortable with the proposed approach.

Treatment Execution

Once your treatment plan is finalized, we will schedule your treatment session. Depending on the selected method, this may involve:

A short outpatient procedure for surgical excision or laser therapy.
An injection session for steroid treatment.
Guidance on using silicone gel sheets or other recommended therapies.

Which Doctor Should You Visit to Treat Keloid?

If you're seeking treatment for keloids, the best specialists to consult are dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Dermatologist or Dermatosurgeons

Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and can provide comprehensive evaluations of keloids. They are equipped to recommend non-surgical treatments such as steroid injections, laser therapy, and silicone gel sheets. Their expertise ensures that you receive tailored care for your specific keloid type and size. Dermatologists; when they get further trained for another 1.5 to 2 years in skin surgeries are called dermatosurgeons. Dermatosurgeons are the best specialty for scar and keloid treatment, as they can give combination approaches based on your skin type and the nature of your scar and keloid.

Plastic Surgeon

For more severe keloids, particularly those causing discomfort or significant aesthetic concerns, a plastic surgeon may be the appropriate choice. They can perform surgical excision to remove the keloid and may offer advanced reconstructive options to minimize scarring. A plastic surgeon can also advise on post-operative care and potential follow-up treatments to prevent recurrence. However, plastic surgeons are not very well versed with treatment modalities like chemical peels or other non-surgical approaches.

Combination Care

In some cases, a collaborative approach between a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon may provide the best outcomes. This ensures a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the medical and cosmetic aspects of keloid management.

Post-keloid treatment in Thiruvananthapuram, our team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions. This may include:

Avoiding sun exposure on the treated area.
Keeping the area clean and dry.
Scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor healing and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Ongoing Support

At Smart Surgeon, our commitment to your keloid scar treatment in Thiruvananthapuram does not change. We offer ongoing support and guidance to help you manage your keloids effectively and prevent recurrence. Our team is always available to answer your questions and address any concerns.

What Are The Chances of Recurrence of Keloid Treatment?

The chances of keloid recurrence after treatment can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of treatment used, the individual’s skin type, and the keloid's characteristics.

Surgical scar removal of keloids has a higher recurrence rate, ranging from 40% to 100%. This is particularly true if the keloid is large or if the surrounding tissue is not managed appropriately post-surgery.

Steroid injections can effectively flatten keloids and reduce inflammation. When combined with surgical excision, the recurrence rate can be significantly lower, but some patients may still experience a recurrence.

Laser treatments can also reduce the size and appearance of keloids, and while they can be effective, some patients may see their keloids return, especially if the underlying factors contributing to keloid formation are not addressed.

Genetics plays a crucial role; individuals with a family history of keloids are generally at a higher risk of recurrence. Skin type and the original cause of the keloid also influence recurrence rates.

Highlighting Unsafe Treatment for Keloid

When dealing with keloids, it’s crucial to avoid treatments that are ineffective or potentially harmful. Here are some unsafe treatment options to be aware of:

Home Remedies

Natural Oils and Pastes: Many people turn to oils (like tea tree oil or garlic) or homemade pastes. While these may seem harmless, they can irritate the skin and worsen the keloid.

Unregulated Products

Over-the-Counter Creams: Some creams claim to flatten keloids without proper clinical evidence. These products often lack regulation, making them risky.

Invasive Procedures Without Professional Oversight

DIY Excision: Attempting to cut or shave off a keloid at home can lead to infections, excessive bleeding, and more severe scarring.

Extreme Treatments

Radiation Therapy: While sometimes used under strict medical supervision, unregulated radiation treatment can increase the risk of cancer and other serious health issues.

Puncturing or Injecting Substances

Self-Injection of Steroids or Other Substances: This can lead to serious complications, including infection and adverse skin reactions.

Laser Treatments Without Professional Guidance

DIY Laser Devices: Using non-professional laser treatment for scars equipment can cause burns and exacerbate the keloid.

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Advanced scar and keloid treatment in Trivandrum

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Scar revision before and after treatment results

Doctors at Smart Surgeons