Hypertrophic scar; Keloid scar; Scar - hypertrophic

Keloids often do not need treatment. They may be reduced in size by:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• Laser treatments
• Radiation
• Surgical removal

Keloids usually are not medically dangerous, but they may affect the appearance. In some cases, they may become smaller, flatter, and less noticeable over a period of several years.

Exposure to the sun during the first year after the keloid forms will cause the keloid to tan darker than the skin around it. This dark color may be permanent.

Removing the keloid may not be permanent. Surgical removal may cause a larger keloid scar.

• Cosmetic changes that affect the appearance
• Discomfort, tenderness of the keloid
• Irritation from rubbing on clothing or other forms of friction
• Limited mobility (if the keloids are extensive)
• Psychological distress if the keloid is large or disfiguring
• Return of the keloid

Call your health care provider if:

• You develop keloids and want to have them removed or reduced
• You develop new symptoms

Images

Keloid above the ear

Keloid, on the foot

Keloid, pigmented

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Keloids Symptoms

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Keloids Prevention

Review Date: 10/05/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)