A keloid is a scar of collagen that forms above the site of a wound, though it can also appear without any injury. It typically looks like a red, itchy, and raised area on the skin, often growing over time. Some keloids can be purple or brown and may become painful if infected. More common in individuals with darker skin, keloids typically appear on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and ears. While not cancerous or infectious, keloids can be painful, itchy, and vary in color. For those seeking effective solutions and the best keloid treatment in Delhi, read on to learn more about the advanced options to manage and reduce keloid scars! You will also learn whom to consult for effective treatment.
Common Causes that lead to Keloid are:
- Injury
- Burn
- Acne
- Surgery
- Blisters
- Piercing
- Vaccination.
Common Symptoms of Keloid:
- A scar tissue that projects above the surface of a healed skin wound like a hump
- Pigmentation of skin
- Itching
- Redness
- Ache or Pain
- Swelling
Treatments for Keloid Scars
Keloids rarely become a severe health issue for a patient. However, sometimes, they can be very painful and troublesome. Besides, they could be more noticeable. This is why many patients want to get rid of them as soon as possible. Some keloid removal treatments are invasive, while others are entirely non-invasive.
- Keloid Removal Surgery:
Most people don’t want to get keloids surgically removed since this is unavoidable only in large, very old keloids; however, it removes the gigantic swelling on your skin.
The keloid scar is excised in keloid surgery. However, although this seems to be an absolute solution, the recurrence of keloids is rather common. Therefore, the doctor may suggest postoperative treatment to prevent recurrence.
- Steroid Injection for Keloid:
These are administered directly into the keloid scar tissue, making the scar shrink in size and diminishing the redness, itching, and burning sensation. Intralesional corticosteroid injections, including triamcinolone acetonide, can reduce inflammation and flatten the scar while removing discomfort and itching. A series of injections, usually every 4-6 weeks, is necessary for this therapy.
- Laser treatment for Keloid:
Even the biggest keloid scars can be treated using pulsed-dye lasers. The therapy will not only enhance the cosmetic appearance of the scar but also reduce irritation and discomfort brought about by the lesion. Typically, four to eight weeks apart, multiple laser sessions are advised to reduce keloid appearance adequately.
This treatment does not have severe side effects, though sometimes bruising occurs.
- Radiotherapy for Keloid:
Radiation therapy may help in the treatment of keloid scars by reducing inflammation and preventing the overproduction of collagen. Radiation therapy may be given after surgery to prevent the spot from recurring.
A linear accelerator (LINAC) can deliver electron beam radiation therapy for keloid scars. Radiation therapy is typically initiated 24 to 72 hours after surgery and may be given in up to five sessions within one week.
The number of treatment sessions and duration shall vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the condition. The side effects of the treatment are possible but very mild to moderate. For example, there are some cases of moderate skin redness right after treatment, but it fades off in 3 to 4 weeks.
- Keloid Scar: Prevention and Treatment:
A keloid growth prevention measure should also be incorporated into treatment for these scars. Although it is not possible to prevent all keloids, some preventive measures can help avoid them:
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Avoid Further Damage to the Skin: The formation of keloids cannot be prevented, but people prone to keloids can prevent them if they are careful in electively performing techniques such as piercing, tattooing, or cosmetic surgery. In fact, a doctor-patient consultation is required if a patient is prone to keloids.
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Proper Wound Care: Proper wound care is crucial after any skin damage to help heal and minimize the risk of infection. Do not pick at scabs, and keep the area clean and covered with a sterile dressing.
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Silicone Sheets or Gels: Applying silicone sheets or gels to heal wounds may help prevent keloid formation by creating a protective barrier and keeping the damage wet, which promotes healthy healing.
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Sun Protection: Avoid sun overexposure since UV light exposure can darken keloids, making them more conspicuous. When outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater and wear protective clothing while keeping out of the sun when possible.
Consult the Best Skin Specialist in Delhi for an Effective Keloid Treatment!
Prevention aside, keloid scars that form earlier should always be monitored for any size, color, or texture changes. If the individual feels that there is some change in the keloid scar, like it becomes painful and itchy or larger, they can consult Dr. Nivedita Dadu, the best skin specialist in Delhi, for proper examination and advice for the treatment plan. The doctor can be consulted at Dadu Medical Centre at two premium places, Rajouri Garden (West Delhi) and Vasant Vihar (South Delhi). Visit now for effective treatment with dermatologist Dr. Nivedita Dadu.