Keloid and hypertrophic scars are types of scars that form from the body’s excessive production of collagen at the site of injury. Usually, when the wound heals, the excess collagen dissipates, leaving behind a normal scar. Keloid and hypertrophic scars form when the body produces more collagen than necessary during the healing process, resulting in an overgrowth of the scar. The excess collagen continues after the wound has healed and leads to the formation of firm, raised scar tissue.
Keloids are abnormal scars that extend beyond the edges of an original wound or incision.
Hypertrophic scars are thick clusters of scar tissue that develop directly at a wound site. They are often raised, red and uncomfortable and may become wider over time.
Contractures are scars that restrict movement due to skin and underlying tissue that pull together during healing.
Keloid and hypertrophic scarring are caused by the body producing too much collagen when trying to heal an injured area. Injury can come from a surgical incision, injury, burn, piercing, acne, or, in rare cases, even spontaneously. Factors such as age, ethnicity, family history, or overactive healing processes due to certain medications may increase the chances of keloid or hypertrophic scarring occurring, but it is still difficult to predict who will be affected or not.
Keloid and hypertrophic scars can form whether the scar is caused by trauma, surgery, or a piercing. The risk of developing either scar type is higher in people with darker skin tones, but they can occur in people of any skin tone. People with a family history of Keloid or hypertrophic scarring have a higher risk of developing either type of scar.
Keloid and hypertrophic scars are raised and firm or rubbery to the touch whereas normal scars are typically soft and flat. Hypertrophic scars are generally restricted to the size of the original wound, while keloid scars can extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound. An additional difference between keloid and hypertrophic scarring is that keloids rarely change or improve without treatment, whereas hypertrophic scars generally improve over time and can be improved or made to disappear with the right treatment.
Keloid and hypertrophic scarring can be treated using a number of different methods, depending on the severity of the scarring and the patient. Treatment options may include surgical removal, corticosteroid injections, laser treatments, pressure therapy, cryosurgery, radiation therapy, and topical medications. Dr. Prajwal K Rao at Dr. Prajwal's Aesthetics in Kanhangad can help develop the right treatment plan for each individual.
Yes, plastic surgery may be used to help reduce the appearance of keloid and hypertrophic scars. A plastic surgeon can perform a scar revision procedure, which consists of surgically removing the excess scar tissue and using skin grafts or topical medications to help the area heal properly. For more severe scarring, plastic surgeons may recommend a scar excision surgery to remove the excess scarring.
A scar revision procedure is a type of surgery that is used to reduce the appearance of keloid and hypertrophic scars. The exact procedure varies based on specific patient needs, but may involve the following steps:
Anesthetic injection: A local anesthetic is injected into the skin to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable for the patient.
Incision: The doctor then makes a small incision in the affected area.
Excision: The excess scar tissue is then removed.
Skin grafts: If necessary, skin grafts may be used to help the area heal properly.
Sutures: Once the area is cleared of excess tissue, the doctor may use sutures to close the incision.
While scar revision surgery is generally a safe and effective way to reduce the appearance of scarring, there are some risks and potential complications associated with any type of surgery. These risks include infection, bleeding, discoloration, and recurrence of the scarring. It is important to discuss the potential risks and complications with Dr. Prajwal K Rao at Dr. Prajwal's Aesthetics in Kanhangad prior to scheduling the procedure.
The results of scar revision surgery will vary depending on individual factors like age, ethnicity, skin type, and the degree of scarring. In general, however, most patients can expect to see dramatic improvements in the appearance of their scars within the first few weeks after surgery. With time, scars can become less visible and may even disappear entirely. Dr. Prajwal K Rao can provide a more accurate expectation of results after the initial consultation.
Dr. Prajwal K Rao at Dr. Prajwal's Aesthetics in Kanhangad offers consultations for keloid and hypertrophic scar treatment. To schedule a consultation, please call the clinic at +916282070003 and one of our friendly patient coordinators will be happy to assist you. During the consultation, Dr. Prajwal K Rao will assess the patient’s individual needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to help reduce the appearance of the scarring.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Prajwal K Rao at Dr. Prajwal's Aesthetics in Kanhangad to learn more about your options for reducing the appearance of Keloid and Hypertrophic scars. Call us at +916282070003 .
