Keloids

What are keloids?

Keloids are raised scars, or excess scar tissue, that appear after an injury and spread to involve the skin beyond the initial insult. Examples of common injuries resulting in keloids are:
 
    • Burns
    • Acne
    • Scratches
    • Chickenpox
    • Piercings
    • Tattoos
    • Cuts
    • Lacerations
    • Other skin trauma
    • Surgical scars

While not cause for concern, keloids can become irritated, itchy, or look unsightly. Simple treatments can offer you relief and improve the appearance of your skin.

What are the signs and symptoms of keloids?

Keloids might present as:

    • Tender or itchy scars
    • Flesh-colored, pink, or red-raised tissue
    • Lumpy or ridged scars
    • Irritated skin 
    • Scars that rub on clothing

When exposed to the sun, keloids might tan darker than the surrounding skin. Treatments available at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center can get rid of keloids, smooth your skin, and reduce irritation.

How are keloids diagnosed?

Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center specialists diagnose keloids after examining your skin. They may require a skin biopsy to rule out cancerous growths. Afterward, your dermatologist discusses your treatment options with you.

How are keloids treated?

Keloids may not require treatment unless they make you self-conscious or are symptomatic. Your doctor might recommend one or more of the following options to diminish keloids:

Injections

Injecting corticosteroids into a keloid can shrink it and reduce its appearance. Multiple injections can offer you the best outcome. This is usually used in combination with excision.

Surgical removal

After numbing the area, Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center specialists can cut out a keloid. Since keloids are triggered by trauma, this is typically combined with intralesional steroid injections both before and after excision.

Silicone patches/gels

Placing silicone gels or sheets on a keloid helps flatten it. Your provider may combine this treatment by applying pressure to the area to prevent keloids from coming back after removal.

Don’t live with unsightly, embarrassing keloids. Call Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center or send us a message to book an appointment on our contact page.

References and Resources:

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keloids-treatment

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000849.htm

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keloids-overview