The problem: Keloids are highly visible exaggerated scars that occur particularly in darker skin. They can develop after surgery, after major skin trauma, or even after very minor skin damage like acne scars. Strangely, they may also develop even if there’s no obvious damage to the skin at all. They are shiny and hairless, feel hard and rubbery and usually occur on the upper chest and shoulders – particularly over the breastbone – and on the earlobes. In people with dark skin they often occur in the beard area and on the scalp.
We are still not quite sure what causes this type of scarring, but we do know the following:
- Dark skinned people are more susceptible to keloids than those with paler skin
- Wounds that are under pressure or get infected while healing are especially likely to develop into keloids as are burn and acne scars
- Keloids are most likely to develop between the ages of 10 and 30
- They are not caught from anyone else
- They carry no risk of cancer
- The tendency to scar in this way can run in families
- They can be caused by chickenpox, acne, minor scratches, surgical incisions, traumatic wounds, vaccination sites, burns
Although keloid scars are not dangerous, they can be itchy and tender or even painful to touch. The emotional impact of these scars, however, is often greater than the physical one as they can cause great distress, particularly in younger patients, and can seriously undermine self confidence.
The treatment: We offer two types of treatment for Keloids, depending on the size of the scar. Smaller Keloids are removed quickly and simply with a series of steroid injections. As seen on Channel 4’s Embarrassing Bodies, this procedure will usually remove the scar within 4 to 6 sessions. Bigger Keloids will be removed surgically by one of our highly qualified surgeons.
The results: In both cases the scar will flatten out and should match the colour of the surrounding skin, making it much less noticeable.
Downtime: None, you can get back to normal activities pretty much straight away.
Our team: We are the UK’s leading non-invasive cosmetic group and have some of the most experienced doctors and surgeons in the country working with us. We are the only clinic in the UK where your Keloids can be assessed and treated in the one place. At your consultation one of our doctors will carefully examine your scar and outline the treatment options available to you. We can then perform the procedure in our own theatre facilities.
or call 0800 599 9911
Some of your questions answered
What does the treatment involve?
Injections of the steroid (triamcinolane) are the most effective way of treating most Keloid scars, though this will depend on the size and location of the scar. After 4 to 6 sessions of this treatment the appearance of Keloids will have improved dramatically. If the scar is particularly large, it will usually be reduced in size with surgery. This will then be followed up with a series of postoperative steroid injections.
How long does the treatment take?
Steroid treatment for Keloid scars takes between 15 and 30 minutes per session. Surgical removal of Keloids can take up to 1 hour depending on size.
How soon will I see results?
With steroid treatments you should notice an improvement in the appearance of your scars within two to three weeks of your first treatment. Usually a course is required. In case of surgery, results are immediate.
How long will the results last?
In the majority of cases the results will be permanent, however very occasionally the Keloids will grow back and you will need to be treated again.
or call 0800 599 9911
