Keloid Removal Overview
A keloid is a type of scar characterized by an overgrowth of tissue after a previous injury or skin disturbance has already healed. A keloid can form after getting the ears pierced, having surgery, getting a tattoo, and more.
The scar is raised, hard, usually smooth to the touch, and can be dark in color. Although they usually grow on a patient’s earlobe, cheek, chest, or shoulder, keloids can form virtually anywhere on the body. Ashburn, VA cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Timothy Mountcastle, offers keloid removal surgery to patients to not only improve their appearance but also to alleviate any pain or discomfort, such as itching, burning, or stinging, related to the keloid. In some cases, when keloids are especially large, they can hinder movement and limit function.
Keloid Removal Before and After*
See More ResultsSurgical Technique
There are several ways to treat keloids and Dr. Mountcastle will more than likely start with the least invasive manner. Overall, it’s important to keep in mind that treating a keloid is difficult since its development is the abnormal result of a previous injury and the scar tissue is excessive.
Dr. Mountcastle can start off with a series of corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation to minimize the size of a keloid. Usually, 3 – 4 injections are needed and are spaced out about 1 month apart. If the injections aren’t beneficial, surgery will be used to remove the keloid. As a result, a diminished, less noticeable scar will be left in its place. In some cases, laser technology can be used to reduce the size and correct the color of the keloid to make it blend in better with the surrounding skin. A combination of treatments can be used to effectively treat the keloid.
During/After Surgery
With surgery, the area of the keloid will be properly numbed, usually with a local anesthetic. Dr. Mountcastle can then use a scalpel, laser, or other tool to remove or minimize the keloid. The length of the surgery will depend on the location and size of the keloid. After surgery, the site will be dressed. Dr. Mountcastle might suggest compression garments depending on the area of the body the keloid is located.
Dr. Mountcastle will also provide detailed instructions on how to treat the site, including topical ointments to use to further minimize the appearance of the keloid. Patients should follow all instructions and attend all post-op appointments. In some cases, a keloid might return and additional treatment would be needed.
Keloid Removal Faqs
Common ways to get keloids?
Keloids are an overreaction to the body’s healing process after an injury or other skin irritant. Common ways to get keloids are from: surgical incisions, vaccination sites, ear piercings, tattoos, burns, scratches, and acne scars.
What are the risk factors?
People with darker skin, such as African-Americans, Latinos, and Asians, are more at risk of developing keloids. Pregnant women are also at a higher risk of developing keloids, as well as men and women under the age of 30. There’s also a heredity link where a person is more susceptible to developing keloids if one or both parents have them.
Are keloids harmful?
No, keloids aren’t harmful and usually don’t warrant medical attention. However, if they continue to grow uncontrollably, it could be a sign of skin cancer, which would need to be checked out.
Will keloids come back?
Yes, keloids can come back even after having them surgically removed. It’s recommended that you speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of having keloids surgically removed.
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