Treating Keloid Scars

Keloid scars only affect a small percentage of the population so for most people it isn’t a problem. But for those of us whom are prone to developing them, they can be a total nightmare. The medical community actually knows very little about this phenomenon, but research has pointed to genetics having a lot do with it. In other words, if you are susceptible to them, there is little you can do to outright prevent them. However there are a number of different techniques being used to remove them.

The Earlier, The Better

When it comes to removing keloids, you want to begin treatment as soon as you first detect the scar. The reason is that this type of scar tissue hardens with age, so it can become much more difficult to deal with later on. Also, it’s better to address it when the scar is still small, rather than waiting for it to develop into a larger mass.

Treatment Options

There are many different treatments for keloids. What works for some people might not work for another. This is why it’s so important to discuss your treatment plan with a doctor who specializes in this condition. If you turn to the internet for advice, be way of products that claim miracles and old wives tales you may read on a plastic surgery message board. The truth of the matter is that there are a lot of myths out there surrounding this condition. This is why it’s so important to talk to talk to a doctor first.

Surgical Removal

Although there are many creams and lotions that are peddled to the public, probably the most effective way to get rid of them is through surgical removal. This may sound scary, but for smaller keloids, it’s usually an outpatient procedure that is performed at a dermatologist’s office. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so you don’t feel anything.

Returning Scars

Unfortunately there is a rather high probability a keloid could return after it is removed. Some claim the odds are 50/50 as to whether or not it comes back. This is why scar revision surgery is sometimes necessary after the first operation. Although these odds may not be the best, if you don’t do anything there is probably a 100% chance the scar will remain. So taking a chance and getting treatment is still far better than doing nothing at all.