Understanding Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars
After surgery or skin injury, some individuals may develop thick, raised scars in the incision area. These scars are classified as either Keloids or Hypertrophic Scars. The formation of these scars depends on various factors, including genetics, skin type, and a personal history of developing hypertrophic scars or keloids.
Hypertrophic scars or keloids have a strong genetic component, making them difficult to avoid in many cases. These scars are particularly common in areas that experience significant tension, such as the chest, navel, elbows, and neck. Because of this, prevention is the most important and primary step after surgery.
To prevent these scars, it is crucial to follow the guidance of Evita Clinic’s medical professionals. This includes avoiding strenuous physical activities for at least one month and using scar-reducing tapes or topical treatments to minimize tension on the affected area. Despite these preventive measures, if hypertrophic scars or keloids still develop, the following treatments and efforts should be considered to reduce their size and impact.
What is a Keloid?
A keloid is an overgrowth of scar tissue that extends beyond the original wound or incision. It usually develops after the healing process and can continue to grow over time. Keloids are typically raised and may appear in colors ranging from white or red to a shade matching the surrounding skin. These scars can be itchy, uncomfortable, and aesthetically concerning.
What is a Hypertrophic Scar?
A hypertrophic scar is the most common type of raised scar. Unlike keloids, hypertrophic scars do not grow beyond the original wound site. While they are not harmful to one’s health, they can be bothersome due to their appearance and texture. Most people seek treatment for hypertrophic scars primarily for cosmetic reasons.
Key Difference: Hypertrophic scars tend to heal over time, whereas keloids can continue to grow and often require treatment to reduce their size or prevent further growth.
Treatment Options for Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars
1. Medications
Certain oral medications can assist in managing keloids and hypertrophic scars. The most commonly prescribed include:
- Rizaben Capsule
- Accolate Tab
- Sinech Capsule
For individuals with a genetic predisposition to keloids, informing the medical team before surgery is essential. In such cases, immediate post-surgical medication may be prescribed to minimize the formation of hypertrophic scars or keloids, ensuring early intervention and better outcomes.
2. Tension Reduction with Steri-Strips & Tapes
To effectively prevent keloids and hypertrophic scars, it is crucial to minimize tension on the healing wound. Using Steri-Strips or similar medical tapes for at least one month after stitch removal helps to support the incision, counteract tension on the healing wound, and prevent excessive stretching of the skin, ultimately reducing the risk of excessive scarring.
- These tapes reduce tension on the scar, allowing it to heal more smoothly.
- They also provide a barrier against infection and external irritation, further preventing excessive collagen buildup.
3. Silicone Sheets & Silicone Gel
Silicone Sheets & Silicone Gel play a crucial role in both the prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. After surgery, once the stitches are removed, it is essential to use these products for at least one month to help counteract tension on the healing wound and prevent excessive scarring.
Silicone Sheets: These soft, self-adhesive sheets help flatten scars and improve their color by reducing collagen production. If the sheet becomes loose or dirty, it can be washed with water, dried, and reused. To be effective, they must be worn for at least 12 hours per day.
- They also prevent bacterial invasion, which can trigger excessive collagen production.
- Additionally, they help relieve itchiness and discomfort.
Silicone Gel: A more advanced alternative to silicone sheets, silicone gel provides 24-hour effectiveness and dries within 4–5 minutes after application.
- It is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or large scars that are difficult to cover with sheets.
- This treatment is suitable for both children and adults.
4. Steroid Injections
Steroid injections are a widely used treatment for both keloids and hypertrophic scars. This procedure is performed every three weeks and helps reduce inflammation and excessive collagen production.
- Effectiveness: Hypertrophic scars typically respond well to steroid injections, whereas keloids often require multiple treatments due to a higher recurrence rate.
5. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is considered a last-resort treatment for severe keloids. However, this treatment is only available in select university hospitals, making it difficult to access for many patients. While radiation therapy can significantly reduce recurrence rates, it is not a guaranteed solution.
6. Surgical Removal
Surgical excision of keloids offers an opportunity for a second chance at proper post-surgical management. While it does not guarantee that keloids will not return, it allows for careful postoperative care to minimize recurrence.
- Surgical removal involves excising the scar tissue under local anesthesia, a procedure that typically takes 10–30 minutes, depending on the scar size.
- After surgery, it is crucial to follow preventive measures such as tension-reducing tapes, silicone treatments, and steroid injections to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.
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This method of scar revision is not only effective for hypertrophic scars but is also applied to scars widened due to tension.
Get Professional Treatment
At Evita Clinic, we offer safe and effective scar management treatments. Our experienced, English-speaking medical staff provide consultations tailored to your needs.
- Online Consultation Available!
- Safe & Professional Environment
- Cost-Effective Surgeries with Proven Results
- Patients who have undergone surgery at Evita Clinic may receive treatment at a reduced cost or even for free.
If you’re struggling with keloids or hypertrophic scars, contact us today for expert care!