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What are Keloids?
Keloids are scars that form as a result of the overgrowth of tissue at the site of a skin injury. Keloids tend to be elevated above the skin and grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound. They may take weeks to years to develop and do not usually regress with time. Keloids may be very symptomatic in patients. They may be improved or treated to decrease the symptoms.
What causes keloids?
Keloids happen to patients with genetic predispositions. It may start up any skin damage that occurs from burns, surgical incisions, vaccinations, piercings, severe acne or even small scratches.
Who is affected by keloids?
Keloids are more common amongst individuals between the ages of 10 and 30, however all age groups are susceptible to keloids. Individuals with darker skin complexion appear to have a higher risk of developing keloids, with an estimate frequency of 4%-16% among individuals of Asian, Hispanic, and African descent.
How can keloids be treated?
There are many treatment options for keloids. The most commonly used treatment for keloids is corticosteroids injections. The keloid is injected with corticosteroids in order to reduce the size of the keloid. Other supplementary treatment options for keloids include surgical excision, laser treatment, radiation therapy, pressure therapy, and silicone-based occlusive dressings.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Keloid Treatment
Are you suffering from keloids that are causing you physical and emotional pain? If so, then this step-by-step guide to Keloid Removal is for you. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of what keloids are and the different treatment options available. With this information at hand, you can confidently take steps toward addressing your condition and reclaiming your skin. Read on to learn more!
What Is the Keloid Treatment Process?
Keloids are raised, thickened scars that can occur after injury or surgery. They can be unsightly and can cause discomfort or even pain. If you’re dealing with keloids, there are several treatment options available. The keloid removal process will depend on the size, location, and severity of the keloid, as well as the individual’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections can be used to reduce the size and severity of keloids. A steroid solution is injected directly into the keloid, which can help to shrink it over time. This treatment is typically repeated every 4-6 weeks and can take several months to see results.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery, or freezing the keloid, is another treatment option for keloids. This procedure uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the tissue, causing the cells to die. The dead tissue then falls off, leaving behind a smaller, less raised keloid.
Surgery
Surgery may be another option for keloid treatment, especially if it is on an ear lobe. The keloid is cut out and the edges are sutured together. The surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the size and location of the keloid. This is then followed by steroid injection and/or radiotherapy.
Laser Therapy
Laser Therapy is another supplementary treatment for keloid. It can be used to treat the blood vessel and pigmentation of the keloid.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to shrink the keloid. This treatment is usually done after the surgery, to prevent the keloid from recurring.
It’s important to note that keloids can reoccur after treatment, so post-treatment care is essential, such as avoiding friction, pressure, or irritation to the area, and using sun protection if the area is exposed.
It’s also important to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon or dermatologist before undergoing any keloid removal treatment, as they can advise you on the best option for you based on the size, location, and severity of the keloid.
Things to Consider Before Undergoing Keloid Treatment?
Keloids are raised, red scars that form after a skin injury or surgery. They typically occur when the body produces too much scar tissue and may cause itching, pain, and even embarrassment. If you’ve developed keloids, it’s understandable to want them removed. However, before undergoing any kind of treatment for keloid removal, there are a few things to consider.
Overall Health and Medical Conditions
It’s important to consider your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions before undergoing keloid removal. A qualified surgeon or dermatologist will evaluate your health and determine if the procedure is safe for you.
Expectations and Keloid Characteristics
Keloid removal can help to reduce the size and severity of keloids, but it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results. The characteristics of the keloid such as the size, location, and age of the keloid can also affect the outcome of the treatment.
Cost of Keloid Removal
Keloid removal can be a costly procedure, and the cost will vary depending on the treatment option chosen and the location of the surgery. Be sure to discuss all costs associated with the procedure, including any additional costs for anesthesia and post-operative care.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon or dermatologist to perform the keloid removal procedure. Ask to see before and after photos of their work and ask about their experience with the specific treatment option you are considering.
Recovery Time and Post-Treatment Care
Recovery time for keloid removal will vary depending on the treatment option chosen and the individual patient. Be sure to discuss the recovery process with your surgeon and understand how much time you will need to take off work and away from your normal activities. It’s also important to follow post-treatment care instructions such as avoiding friction, pressure, or irritation to the area, and using sun protection if the area is exposed.
Risks and Potential Complications
Keloid Treatment carries certain risks and potential complications. Be sure to discuss these with your surgeon, including the risk of infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. It’s also important to note that keloids can reoccur after treatment, so it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks before undergoing the procedure.
The Best Surgeon for You
With more than 35 years of experience, Dr. Hong has some of the most competitive prices in Cosmetic, Plastic and Reconstructive surgeries in Toronto, North York and Markham.
Dr. Hong is committed to providing the highest level of care, so you can be sure that your procedure will be performed with the utmost professionalism and skill. He understands that keloid removal is a delicate process, and he takes great pride in delivering outstanding results.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
If you’d like to book an appointment with Dr. Hong, please contact his office at (416) 222-6986 or email us at info@drcolinhong.com. When getting in touch, make sure to include your full name, email address and phone number to ensure you receive a prompt response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hypertrophic scars and keloids are similar in that they are scars that develop from excessive collagen buildup from the healing of a wound. However, keloids enlarge beyond the boundaries of the wounds, while hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the wound. Hypertrophic scars usually develop within 2 months of the injury and tend to regress with time. Keloids, however, can take many months, even years to develop and do not regress over time.
Sometimes after the treatment, patients may experience facial flushing, however, this is only temporary and will subside within a few hours. Patients with diabetes may have elevated blood sugar levels and should carefully monitor their blood levels after the injection. Patients with diabetes should notify their doctor prior to the injection.
With frequent corticosteroid injections, patients may experience thinning skin, weight gain, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis (weakening of the bones). However, these side effects should decrease with a decrease in dosage and number of injections.
Works Cited
“Corticosteroids – Side Effects.” NHS Choices. National Health Service, 8 Nov. 2011. Web. 03 Aug. 2013.
Driver, Catherine Burt, MD. “Cortisone Injection.” MedicineNet. WebMD, n.d. Web. 03 Aug. 2013.
Jacoby, David B., and R. M. Youngson. Encyclopedia of Family Health. Vol. 7. Tarrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish, 2005. Print.
Jansen, David A., MD, FACS, and Joseph A. Molnar, MD, PhD, FACS. “Keloids .” Keloids. WebMD Health Professional Network, 30 Jan. 2012. Web. 20 July 2013.
“Keloid.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 17 July 2013. Web. 20 July 2013.
“Keloids: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.” U.S National Library of Medicine. Ed. Kevin Berman, MD, PhD. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 30 Jan. 2012. Web. 20 July 2013.
Rumsey, Nichola, and Diana Harcourt. The Psychology of Appearance. Maidenhead, England: Open UP, 2005. Print.
Schneider, Melinda, Elissa Meites, MD, MPH;, and Steven P. Daane, MD. “Keloids: Which Treatment Is Best for Your Patient?” The Journal of Family Practice 62.5 (2013): 227-33. Consumer Health Complete. Quadrant HealthCom Inc., 2013. Web. 20 July 2013.
Dr. Hong is a skilled and highly gifted body-shaping specialist. He provides several sophisticated surgical procedures. Two examples are thigh lift and buttock augmentation in Toronto. He is also a leading authority who specializes in helping liposuction, arm lift and tummy tuck Toronto patients attain the cosmetic results they long for.
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Amazing experience, Doctor Hong is very confident and good at what he does. Every time I go to him I always get good results that I love and feel safe. Very friendly and helpful staff!