For many people, having keloid scars can be difficult; they can be physically uncomfortable and have an impact on self-esteem. Their elevated, overgrown appearance can be highly obvious, particularly on the face and chest, causing insecurity. Furthermore, keloid scars can be irritating and uncomfortable, and in rare situations, they might hinder movement if they grow large enough. Darker-skinned individuals typically experience more prominent keloid scars. Unfortunately, while there is no certain approach to prevent them, board-certified Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Solomon Azouz offers customized, cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical treatments for keloid scars.

What is a keloid scar?

An irregular proliferation of fibrous tissue that develops at the location of a healed skin injury or trauma is known as a keloid scar. Keloids grow outside the initial incision region and frequently become thicker and larger than regular scars, which eventually dissipate. Their hue ranges from pink to dark brown, and they can be elevated, shiny, and have a smooth top.

What causes a keloid?

Although the precise etiology of keloid formation is not entirely understood, many elements seem to play a role in their growth. Genetic predisposition is important; people with a family history of keloid scarring are more likely to develop keloids. Keloids typically form after injuries to the skin (burns, cuts, or surgery), scars from acne, tattoos, or piercings.

How does a keloid form?

Keloid growth stems from the usual wound-healing process. When an injury occurs, the body naturally uses collagen, a protein similar to a building block, to generate scar tissue and heal the wound. However, for people who are predisposed to keloids, this process is disrupted. Collagen production does not stop when the wound heals. Instead, the body continues to produce excess collagen long after the injury has healed. Overproduction of collagen causes a raised and stiff scar that extends well beyond the original lesion, resulting in the keloid. While the specific reason is unknown, many variables may interfere with normal healing and raise the chance of keloid formation. These include wounds that take longer than normal to heal (more than 3 weeks), wounds that are inflamed, and wounds that have something stuck inside them, like a splinter.

What does a keloid look like?

Keloids can differ in terms of appearance, size, and shape. Usually, they appear as solid, elevated growths that are rubbery and expand outside the boundaries of the initial injury. Keloids are frequently found in the back, earlobes, shoulders, and chest. Among the symptoms could be itching, tenderness, discomfort, or restricted movement (if involving joints).

What is the treatment for keloids?

• Steroids: Corticosteroids inhibit keloid formation by reducing inflammation and the production of collagen. Steroids contain anti-inflammatory effects, which reduce swelling and discomfort. Furthermore, steroids inhibit fibroblast activity, reducing collagen formation and shrinking the keloid.
• Silicone: Silicone gel sheeting and pressure therapy: Silicone sheets are placed on the keloid to improve hydration and maybe minimize scar tissue growth. Pressure therapy, which is commonly used with garments, works in a similar way to reduce collagen formation and blood flow to the area.
• Cryotherapy: This method includes freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen, which can destroy some scar tissue and potentially lessen its size.
• Laser therapy: Various types of lasers can be used to treat keloids. They may help flatten and lighten the scar, but they are not always the final cure.



• Surgery: While surgical excision of keloids may appear to be a simple procedure, it is rarely suggested as a sole treatment. Keloids have a high recurrence rate, which means they might grow back even larger following surgery. However, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz may recommend surgery in conjunction with other treatments, such as steroid injection, to improve outcomes and reduce recurrence.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Azouz

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Azouz has vast expertise in treating keloid scars. He approaches each patient individually, making sure that treatment plans are customized to meet their unique requirements and objectives. Schedule a consultation with Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz to address your keloid scars and restore smoother, healthier skin. Call the office at (972) 702-8888 or contact us online. Our goal is to assist you in reaching your best potential and regaining self-assurance regarding the way you seem. Keloid scars shouldn’t limit you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are keloids related to genetics?

There may be a genetic component to keloids, making some people more susceptible to developing them than others. Those who identify as Asian, Hispanic, or African have a higher prevalence of them.

Are keloids itchy?

Itching, soreness, or even pain are common side effects of keloids, which can pose long-term problems for those who have them.

Are there any preventive measures for keloids?

Certain people who are susceptible to keloids could benefit from taking preventative steps, like applying pressure dressings or silicone gel sheeting almost immediately after a skin injury.