Keloid scars can grow beyond the original injury, creating raised, firm areas that may itch, feel tender, or cause discomfort. At Waterside Dermatology, our doctors evaluate your scar and provide evidence-based treatment tailored to your skin and concerns.
Flatten Raised,
Overgrown Scar Tissue
Keloid scars are raised areas of scar tissue that continue growing beyond the boundaries of the original cut, injury, piercing, or skin trauma. They may feel firm, itchy, tender, or uncomfortable, and can enlarge over time. Treatment aims to flatten or soften the scar, relieve bothersome symptoms, and limit further growth. Depending on your scar, your doctor may recommend injections, topical therapies, or other dermatologic treatments.
Signs & Symptoms of Keloid Scars:
- Raised, thickened scar tissue
- Growth beyond the original injury
- Firm or rubbery texture
- Smooth, shiny appearance
- Pink, red, brown, or darker coloration
- Itching around the scar
- Tenderness or sensitivity
- Pain or discomfort
- Gradual enlargement over time
- Tightness or restricted movement in some areas
- Persistent scar tissue that does not flatten over time
What Causes Keloid Scars?
Keloid scars develop when your body produces too much collagen during the healing process after the skin is injured. Instead of remaining within the boundaries of the original wound, scar tissue continues to grow outward, forming a raised scar. The reason some people develop keloids is not fully understood, but genetics may play an important role.
Certain injuries and personal factors may increase your likelihood of developing a keloid, including:
- Cuts, scrapes, or other skin injuries
- Surgical incisions
- Ear or body piercings
- Tattoos
- Burns
- Acne blemishes or scars
- Insect bites
- Vaccination or injection sites
- A personal or family history of keloids
- Darker skin tones
- Younger age, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood
Treatment for Keloid Scars
Your consultation begins with a careful examination of the scar, including its size, location, texture, and extent beyond the original injury. Your doctor will ask when it developed, whether it has continued growing, what caused the injury, and whether you’re experiencing itching, tenderness, pain, or other concerns.
Treatment is tailored to the specific characteristics of your keloid scar. Depending on the keloid, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections, topical or silicone-based therapies, cryotherapy, or other dermatologic treatments. Some keloids may require a combination of treatments over time. Your doctor will discuss the appropriate treatments with you, monitor how the scar responds, and adjust your treatment plan when needed.
FAQs
Will My Keloid Scar Go Away on Its Own?
Keloids do not disappear without treatment. Unlike some other scars, they may remain raised or continue growing beyond the original wound. Treatment can help flatten and soften the scar, reduce symptoms, and make it less noticeable, although results vary from person to person.
Can My Keloid Grow Back After Treatment?
Yes. Keloids have a tendency to recur, even after successful treatment. Your doctor may recommend multiple treatment sessions or a combination of approaches to help manage the scar and reduce the likelihood of further growth.
How Long Does Keloid Treatment Take?
Your treatment timeline depends on the size, location, age, and characteristics of your keloid, as well as the treatment being used. Some approaches require several sessions spaced over time, and your doctor will monitor your progress before recommending any adjustments.
Can I Have a Keloid Removed Surgically?
Surgical removal may be appropriate for certain keloids, but surgery itself creates a new wound and can sometimes lead to another keloid. For this reason, surgery may be combined with other therapies to help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Find Relief From Bothersome Scars
If a raised scar keeps growing, itching, or bothering you, it may be worth having it evaluated. Call Waterside Dermatology to schedule your consultation for keloid scar treatment in Bradenton, FL, and find out which treatment approach may be right for your skin.
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