Keloids are thick scars created when the body produces too much wound-healing collagen. This excessive healing response results in a raised scar that can often be quite large. The reason the body responds this way to an injury is not fully understood and keloid scars can result from even minor skin trauma, such as an insect bite. Although keloids are not harmful to your health, they can occur in areas that create problems with the function of your body. They are also aesthetically unappealing to some people and can cause anxiety or self-esteem problems. Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery can restore function and appearance with keloid removal.

Keloids Vs. Hypertrophic Scars

In the early stages of wound healing, keloid and hypertrophic scars can look very similar. Hypertrophic scars are typically red and thick, appearing in places where there is a lot of tension on a wound. Over time, a hypertrophic scar will flatten and turn a lighter color. Most importantly, hypertrophic scars are confined to the injured area.

Keloid scars range from pink to purple and are a smooth, hard covering over a previously injured area. They can appear anywhere, but are frequently found on the earlobes, shoulders and chest. They form regardless of the amount of tension on the injury and can occur even when a trauma is minor. Due to the hyperactive healing response, keloids often extend well past the area of the original damage, making evidence of the injury appear more severe.

Keloid Treatment in Dallas

Keloids are very difficult to treat with surgery because a person prone to these scars is likely to develop another one from surgery itself. For this reason, surgical revision of keloids is only performed if they are large or interfering with function. Following surgery, multiple secondary treatments are required to prevent the keloid from returning. Dr. Azouz of Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery is fellowship trained and board certified, and his precise techniques can help improve keloid scars. Appropriate aftercare can keep them from returning.

If you need keloid treatment, contact Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery today.