A keloid is an exaggerated growth of scar tissue that is raised and firm to hard in consistency, extending beyond the original dimensions of the scar. The word “keloid” means claws of a crab, reflecting how keloids can grow beyond the margins of the original scar and never regress on their own. They can occur on any part of the skin surface, but common sites include the chest midline, ears, and the nape of the neck.

Common symptoms are itching, pain, and infection. There is no permanent cure for this condition, and both medical and surgical management have been described in the literature. Recurrence is very common after keloid treatment. Preventive measures to avoid keloid formation and prompt treatment in the initial stages are important in its management.

Any individual who has developed a keloid due to skin injury is a candidate for keloid treatment. Injuries that might give rise to keloid formation include:

• Minor injuries such as scratches, insect bites, acne, or injections.
• Major events such as surgical sites or trauma.

Risk Factors for Keloid Formation:

1. Dark Skin Types: Commonly seen in people from Africa and Asia.
2. Family History: Genetic predisposition to keloid formation.
3. Common Sites: Midline chest and ears are prone areas.
4. Age Group: Patients under 30 years old.
5. Secondary Intention Healing: Wounds left to heal on their own without closure.

Recurrence is very common after keloid treatment. Combination treatments of medicines and surgery reduce recurrence rates. Various treatments for keloids are as follows:

1. Pressure Application:

   • Using pressure garments, straps, crepe bandages, or stockings to flatten the keloid.

2. Silicone Gel and Ointments:

   • Application on the keloid reduces growth potential, softens the keloid, and minimizes symptoms.
   • Corticosteroid creams can prevent keloid growth and reduce recurrence rates.

3. Intralesional Injections:

   • Steroid injections directly into the keloid with variable success rates.

4. Cryotherapy:

   • Application of liquid nitrogen to freeze the keloid tissue.

5. RecoSMA Laser Treatment:

   • Significantly reduces the growth of keloid tissue and prevents recurrence.

6. Radiation Therapy:

   • Used in combination with surgery or as monotherapy, showing variable results.

7. Surgical Excision:

   • Removal of the keloid tissue; however, recurrence rates of 60-100% have been observed.

8. Combination Therapy:

   • Utilizing multiple modalities to significantly reduce recurrence rates and keloid growth.

The treatment begins with a thorough assessment to determine the most suitable approach. Depending on the size, location, and severity of the keloid, a customized treatment plan may include:

• Medical Treatments: Silicone gels, corticosteroid creams, and pressure garments.
• Intralesional Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation and flatten the keloid.
• Laser Therapy: RecoSMA laser targets keloid tissue to reduce growth.
• Surgical Excision: Removal of the keloid, often combined with other therapies.
• Radiation Therapy: Applied post-surgery to prevent recurrence.

Recovery varies based on the treatment method:

• Post-Treatment Care:

  • Use moisturizers to relieve itching and irritation.
  • Avoid dryness and repeated handling of the scar.
  • Apply pressure garments as advised.

• Follow-Up:

  • Regular monitoring for signs of recurrence.
  • Additional treatments may be scheduled as needed. 

At Elrevo Clinic, our team of experts has been providing treatments for keloids for over 12 years. We have managed all varieties of patients suffering from keloids, producing remarkable results in terms of size reduction and decreased recurrence rates.

Success Rates:

• Surgical Treatment:

  • By offering combination treatments of surgery and radiotherapy since 2014, we have reduced the recurrence rate to less than 10% among our patients.
  • This success rate is higher or on par with renowned hospitals worldwide.

• Medical Treatment:

  • Significant improvement in symptoms and size.
  • Treatment duration varies based on location and size.
  • Most patients achieve satisfactory results as per their expectations.

Our team of board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeons provides evidence-based treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. With extensive experience and a holistic approach, we focus on reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes. Trust Elrevo Clinic for effective and compassionate care in keloid management.