HYPERTROPHIC + KELOID SCARS
Any damage to the skin can leave a scar, whether it is from surgery or trauma. The severity and noticeability of the scarring will depend upon numerous factors.Your age, genetics and skin tone, along with the part of the body that was affected or operated on, will all determine which type of scar is left behind.
If your scar is wide and either thickened or raised, it is commonly referred to as a keloid. It is especially common in Afro-Caribbean, Asian and red and fair haired patients. Actual mechanics behind what causes the scars remains unknown, though it could be linked to exhaustive wound-healing.
If you’ve been left with a keloid scar it can be distressing. However, there are treatments that can help to reduce the appearance of keloid scarring.
What keloid scar treatments are available?
Mr Paul Tulley can offer several procedures to make keloid scars less noticeable. Most involve injections, along with excision, steroids and silicone gel sheet compression.
Intralesional steroid injections, alongside triamcinolone, tends to be one of the more effective options. They are carried out in two to six week intervals until maximum results have been achieved. Gel impregnated and steroid impregnated topical treatments can also help minimise keloid appearance.
What does surgical excision of keloid scarring involve?
Surgical excision is another option, but it does carry the highest risk of the scar returning. In many cases, the returning scar could be bigger than it was originally. Meticulous surgical procedures are the most effective type of keloid surgery and it is often used alongside other treatments such as intralesional steroids.
What results can I expect from surgical excision of keloid scarring?
If you do have surgery to revise a keloid scar, you will notice it appears bright red at first. This will fade within six months to up to two years. Surgery typically involves removing the old scar completely, leaving behind a new scar with the hope that it will heal better than the first.
Am I suitable for keloid scar treatment?
Mr Paul Tulley will discuss your treatment options when you come in for your consultation. Your overall health and various factors will be considered before deciding upon the most appropriate procedure.
Other scar revision procedures:
Arrange a consultation with Mr Paul Tulley to discuss keloid scar revision; call us on 020 7183 1559 or use the contact form.
