Keloids

Keloid Treatment in Miami

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A keloid is an overgrown area of scar tissue that forms at the site of a previous injury such as an incision, wound, vaccination, acne or piercing. An irregularly shaped pink or red scar that is raised above the rest of the skin, a keloid may grow into areas that were not affected by the initial injury. A keloid is generally painless, but may feel itchy or be sensitive to the touch.

Causes of Keloids

Keloids can occur for several reasons. Some of the most common ones include:

  • Surgical scars
  • Acne scarring
  • Piercings
  • Chickenpox scars

Risk Factors for Keloids

Certain people, including those who have a family history of keloids, and those with darker skin tones, are more prone to developing keloids. African Americans, Latinos and Asians are more likely to develop keloids than people from other ethnic backgrounds. Although keloids can appear anywhere, they usually form on the neck, ears, chest, shoulders and arms.

Treatment for Keloids

Most keloids do not require treatment, although some people take advantage of the several procedures that can improve keloids’ appearance and that of the surrounding skin. Some of these treatments flatten keloids, whereas others reduce their redness and size. Most treatments leave an irregular mark or create an uneven texture on the skin. Keloid treatments include:

  • Cortisone injections
  • Cryotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Laser removal
  • Surgery

Treatment for Keloids

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Prevention of Keloids

Although not all keloids can be prevented, the best method of prevention is to avoid injuries to the skin. Avoiding piercings, tattoos and elective surgeries reduces the chance of developing a keloid scar. An existing keloid should be covered by a band-aid or patch, and sunscreen should be used when it is exposed to the sun.

Keloids are not medically dangerous. Many people, however, seek treatment to make their keloids less noticeable.

FAQ

Is There Downtime After Treatment For Keloids?

Typically, no. After you have treatment for keloids, you can return to your normal activities without delay. Your doctor will advise you about what you can and cannot do prior to having treatment.

What Are The Risks Associated With Keloid Treatment?

When performed by an experienced medical professional, the risks associated with keloid treatment are low. Some patients may have treatment site tenderness if they have corticosteroid injections. However, any residual tenderness should resolve quickly without the need for additional medical intervention.

It is also important to mention that although the risks of keloid treatment are low, each modality comes with its own risks. These include:

  • Cortisone injections: hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, thinning of the skin, and an increased risk of spider veins.
  • Cryotherapy: Increased risk of blistering, pain and discomfort, loss of skin color.
  • Radiation: Increased risk of a skin infection, necrosis, atrophy, and ulceration.
  • Laser removal: Increased risk of sustaining a burn, skin discoloration, blistering, and crusting.
  • Surgery: Increased risk of scar tissue, infections, bleeding, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

Can Keloids Go Away On Their Own?

In some cases, keloids may shrink naturally on their own. In other cases, keloids need to be removed surgically or with other modalities, such as injections, lasers, and cryotherapy.

Can You Prevent Keloids?

While keloids are not life-threatening, there are some instances where a person cannot completely prevent them. People with keloid-prone skin, such as those with dark skin tones, are more at risk. However, there are methods to help lower the risk. For example, getting your ear pierced is one of the biggest risk factors for having keloids form. The best way to prevent this from occurring is to refrain from piercing your ear.

If you opt for an ear piercing, you must pay close attention. If you notice any kind of thickening, immediately remove the piercing. Keloids can also form in people who have tattoos or a cosmetic procedure performed. Keloids affect everyone differently, so you may have to do some tests for a more definitive answer.

Schedule A Consultation

Interested in learning more about Keloid treatment? Call us at 305.532.4478 to schedule your consultation today! Greater Miami Skin & Laser Center serves Miami Beach & all nearby areas.

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