subject: How Do You Treat a Keloid Scar? [print this page] Keloid scars are very thick scars that form after normal scar tissue. Despite correct closure and excellent wound care, some people are more prone to developing thick scars. If your scar tissue becomes thicker, wider, more red, itchy, painful, or extends beyond the original borders of your injury, then you may be developing a keloid scar.
Keloid scars can occur in anyone, but are more prone in certain areas of the body and among different ethnic groups. Keloid scars tend to occur more often in the upper arm, and neck areas. They are also more prone to happen among people with darker skin, such as African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and people from Southern Europe.
Generally, keloid scars should be treated similar to a healing wound. This would include cleansing of the incision, use of antibiotic ointment, and making sure you follow your plastic surgeon's instructions.
Scars mature over 6-12 months, so it is important to take care of your scar after surgery. This would include protection from the sun, use special anti-scar creams, special bandages, and possible cortisone injections. These non-surgical options are effective within the first 6-12 months of your original injury.
If you have a keloid scar that is older than 6-12 months, then non-surgical options may not work. If this is the case, you may need surgical revision of your scar, which is typically done in an operating room setting. Every scar is different, so it is difficult to say exactly what you will need in terms of a scar revision.
