Scars are generally grouped into three categories: sunken (atrophic) scars, raised (hypertrophic) scars, and keloids. Anyone can develop any one of these scars, however, keloid scars seem to be the most predominant and most difficult type of scar tissue to treat.

Keloid scars can develop from any type of wound, be it a cut, burn, or inflammatory reaction such as acne. As they develop, keloids can extend past the edges of the original site of damage and keep growing for years to come.

In other words, keloid removal can be difficult. Surgical excision is an option for people who have tried other alternatives without success. Nevertheless, the high recurrence rate can complicate the success of surgery.

A Holistic Approach to Keloid Treatment

Doctors have come to learn that keloid scar removal must be approached from different perspective. As a matter of fact, a global treatment plan has proven to be the best way of eliminating keloid scars for good. This type of treatment requires a combination of surgery, steroid injections, and compression therapy to help make keloid removal a full success.

Steroid injections can be used before and after surgery to help flatten the scar. The doctor may choose to inject steroids directly into the site of the scar during the excision process. This is done because there have been studies that show that this will help reduce the rate of recurrence.

Compression therapy includes a custom fitted garment that must be worn 24 hours a day. This type of therapy can be used instead of surgery to treat minor keloid scars. However, it can also be used after surgery to reduce the possibility of a new keloid.

Compression garments and bandages are usually worn for long periods of time which may mean anywhere from several months to a year or more. No one knows how this works, but there is speculation that the restriction of oxygen can help reduce the biological processes that leads to the development of keloids.

Other Common Alternatives for Keloid Treatment

Laser therapy is often used successfully as an alternative for keloid treatment. This is done by using a pulsed-dye laser to help flatten keloids and reduce the redness they present. It is necessary to go through several sessions to get the best results.

Silicone sheets are another alternative that can help reduce the appearance of keloids and other types of scars. They work much in the same way as compression devices do. However, silicone sheets are worn for fewer hours during the day.

Smaller keloids can be treated with cryotherapy. The keloid is frozen using liquid nitrogen which helps flatten the scar although it also causes a slight darkened appearance at the site of injury.