Keloid Treatment

When there is an injury or trauma to the skin, the body initiates a healing process in which fibrous tissues—called scar tissues or collagen fibers—form over the wound to repair and protect the skin. In some individuals, this process becomes exaggerated. The body continues to produce collagen even after the wound has healed, leading to an excess buildup of scar tissue. This results in a raised, enlarged, and sometimes painful keloid. The first visible sign is usually thickening of the skin at the site of injury, which may take weeks to months to appear.

Once it begins to develop, it can grow slowly over several months—or even years—and may become darker than the surrounding skin over time.

Common Causes of Keloid Formation

Certain types of skin injuries are more likely to cause keloid scars. Below are the most common causes you should be aware of:

• Ear Piercing: Piercing creates a small wound that may trigger an overactive healing response, leading to thickened scar tissue formation around the earlobe or other pierced areas.
• Severe Acne Breakouts: Deep, inflamed acne damages skin layers beneath the surface, increasing the risk of abnormal scar growth during the healing phase.
• Chickenpox: The pustules from chickenpox lesions can leave raised scars in some people, especially if the skin is scratched or irritated during recovery.
• Burns: Thermal burns cause significant skin damage that heals with excessive collagen buildup, resulting in firm, raised, and often itchy scars.
• Surgical Incisions: Cuts made during surgery may heal unevenly or aggressively, with collagen producing thickened scars that extend beyond the incision line.
• Scratches and Skin Scrapes: Even minor skin injuries, like accidental scratches or abrasions, can sometimes trigger abnormal scar tissue formation in predisposed individuals.
• Bug Bites: Insect bites cause localized inflammation that may stimulate excess scar tissue growth, particularly if the bite becomes infected or repeatedly irritated.
• Skin Infections or Diseases: Inflammatory skin conditions such as folliculitis increase tissue damage and provoke a heightened healing response, sometimes causing raised scars.
• Tattooing: The trauma from tattoo needles penetrates the skin repeatedly, which can result in an abnormal healing process and thickened scar development.
• Vaccination Sites: The injection site creates a small wound that occasionally heals with excess collagen, leading to localized raised scar tissue.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Keloid Scars?

Some people have a higher risk of developing raised scars due to their skin type, genetics, or life stage. Here are the key risk factors:

• People with darker skin tones, such as those of Asian, African, Mediterranean, or Latin American descent, tend to have a higher risk due to genetic and skin differences.
• Pregnant women may experience hormonal changes that affect skin healing, increasing susceptibility to raised scars during this period.
• Individuals below 30 years of age generally have more active skin repair mechanisms, which can result in more aggressive scar tissue formation.
• A family history of similar scars increases the likelihood of developing raised scars due to inherited factors influencing skin healing.

Raised scars show distinct symptoms that can help you identify them early. Check for the following signs on your skin:

• Raised, Thickened Skin: The scar tissue forms an elevated, noticeable bump that extends beyond the original injury site, feeling ridged, bumpy, or smooth but significantly thicker than the surrounding skin.
• Firm or Rubber-like Texture: The affected area has a distinct firmness or rubbery feel when touched, sometimes softer in older scars but usually noticeably different from normal skin texture.
• Color Changes: Initially pink or flesh-colored, the scar may darken over time, turning red, purple, or brown, especially after sun exposure or skin irritation.
• Itching and Tenderness: The scarred skin is often itchy and tender, causing discomfort or irritation, particularly when rubbed by clothing or subjected to pressure.
• Continued Growth: Unlike regular scars, the raised area grows progressively larger over months or years, often expanding beyond the boundaries of the original wound.
• Pain or Discomfort: Mild to moderate pain or aching sensations may occur during the active growth phase, especially if the scar is located near joints or sensitive areas.
• Sensitivity to Friction or Pressure: Constant rubbing or pressure from clothing or accessories can inflame the scar tissue, worsening symptoms and delaying healing.
• Restricted Movement (Rare): In some cases, large, thick scars near joints or skin folds can limit mobility and cause discomfort during movement.
• Cosmetic Concerns: The glossy, raised appearance of these scars can affect self-confidence and may be a source of emotional distress due to its noticeable and sometimes disfiguring nature.
• For personalised evaluation and effective treatment of raised scars, visit Dr. Shetty’s clinic in Bangalore, where expert dermatologists use advanced, safe methods tailored to your skin type and condition.

This treatment is suitable for individuals with raised, thick scars who are seeking smoother, flatter skin and long-term relief from itching, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns caused by keloids.

• Individuals with Visible Raised Scars: People who develop thick, raised scar tissue after injury or surgery often seek treatment to reduce visibility, discomfort, and the emotional impact associated with keloid formation.
• Patients with Keloids Resistant to Creams: If over-the-counter creams have failed, medical intervention such as steroid injections, laser therapy, or minor surgery may provide more effective and lasting relief.
• Those with Keloid Recurrence History: Some individuals experience recurring growth of scar tissue after initial treatment. Comprehensive care helps manage regrowth and minimize long-term scarring through tailored therapy options.
• People with Keloids Causing Pain or Itching: Discomfort, itching, or sensitivity are common symptoms. Treatment reduces inflammation and improves quality of life by softening the scar tissue and calming nerve irritation.
• Patients Concerned About Cosmetic Appearance: Many seek treatment to improve skin texture and tone when keloids form in visible areas like the face, chest, shoulders, or earlobes, affecting self-esteem and confidence.
• Individuals with Stable Health Conditions: Those in overall good health without uncontrolled chronic illnesses are better candidates, as they tolerate treatment more effectively and heal faster with fewer complications.
• Those with Genetic Keloid Tendency: People with a family history of keloids benefit from early medical guidance and proactive care to reduce scarring after minor cuts, piercings, or surgeries.
• Patients Seeking Non-Surgical Solutions: Not all keloids require excision. Candidates looking for minimally invasive options may benefit from steroid injections, cryotherapy, or laser treatments depending on scar size and location.
  

Keloid treatment offers many advantages that go beyond cosmetic improvements, addressing both physical discomfort and emotional well-being:

• Reduction of Scar Size and Thickness: Treatment helps flatten and soften keloids, making them less noticeable and less bulky over time.
• Alleviation of Symptoms: Patients often experience relief from itching, pain, and tenderness associated with keloid scars after treatment.
• Improved Skin Texture and Flexibility: Effective therapy can restore more natural skin texture, improving comfort and range of motion if keloids are near joints.
• Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem: Reducing the prominence of keloids can help patients feel more comfortable in their skin, positively impacting mental health and social interactions.
• Prevention of Further Scar Growth: Timely treatment reduces the likelihood of keloids growing larger or recurring after surgical or injury-related wounds.
• Customized Treatment Plans: Different techniques target keloids based on their size, location, and severity, ensuring personalized and effective care.
  

Proper preparation increases effectiveness and reduces post-procedure complications. Follow these steps before undergoing your treatment session:

• Avoid Sun Exposure to the Area: Direct sunlight can darken keloids and affect treatment response. Protect the area with clothing or sunscreen before and after therapy to prevent pigmentation issues.
• Do Not Apply Any Irritating Products: Refrain from using acids, peels, or strong creams on or near the scar for several days prior, as this may increase skin sensitivity during treatment.
• Disclose All Medical History Honestly: Inform your provider about current medications, allergies, or past treatments. Complete transparency ensures safety and allows for customized and effective care planning.
• Stop Smoking at Least Two Weeks Prior: Smoking affects blood circulation and oxygen flow to skin tissue, which can slow healing and increase the risk of post-treatment complications or recurrence.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods: Proper hydration and balanced meals support your immune system and skin health, ensuring better recovery and more effective response to keloid therapies.
• Clean the Area Gently Before Treatment: Use mild soap and lukewarm water to keep the skin clean. Do not scrub or exfoliate the scar area, as this could cause irritation or micro-damage.
• Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Certain pain relievers and supplements like ibuprofen or fish oil may increase bleeding risk. Only discontinue medication after discussing it with your healthcare provider.
• Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing: If the treatment area is on the body, choose soft garments that won’t rub or cause pressure on the keloid, reducing friction and irritation during and after treatment.
  

Understanding the procedure in advance reduces anxiety and helps set realistic expectations for outcome and recovery:

• Topical or Local Anesthetic May Be Used: Depending on the treatment, your provider may numb the area with topical gel or inject local anesthesia to ensure comfort during minor procedures or injections.
• Steroid Injections Flatten the Tissue: Corticosteroids are often injected directly into the keloid to reduce inflammation, soften the scar, and limit further tissue growth over multiple treatment sessions.
• Laser Therapy Targets Scar Tissue: Pulsed dye or CO₂ lasers can break down excess collagen, reduce redness, and smooth the keloid’s surface gradually through repeated non-invasive sessions.
• Cryotherapy Freezes the Keloid: Liquid nitrogen may be applied to freeze the scar tissue, causing it to shrink. This is often combined with injections for enhanced effectiveness in smaller keloids.
• Minor Surgery May Be Performed: For larger or stubborn keloids, surgical excision removes the raised scar. Follow-up treatments are often used to prevent regrowth after the surgical removal.
• Silicone Gel or Sheets Are Applied: Post-treatment, silicone dressings may be used to flatten the scar and reduce tension on healing skin. These are typically worn daily for several weeks.
• Treatment Duration Varies by Method: Most sessions last between 15 to 60 minutes depending on the approach used, and multiple sessions are usually needed for visible and lasting results.
• Minimal Downtime with Most Techniques: Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness being the most common and temporary post-treatment side effects.
  

Aftercare plays a crucial role in preventing recurrence and achieving the smoothest skin possible:

• Apply Prescribed Ointments Regularly: Use any topical medications or steroids exactly as directed to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and prevent the keloid from returning or worsening over time.
• Protect the Area from Sunlight: Direct UV exposure can darken treated scars and compromise healing. Apply sunscreen daily or cover the area with clothing or a medical-grade dressing.
• Avoid Picking or Scratching the Site: It may itch slightly while healing, but avoid touching or disturbing the area, as this can trigger inflammation, reopen wounds, or cause infection.
• Wear Silicone Sheets if Recommended: Silicone helps flatten scars and lock in moisture. Wear sheets or gel as advised by your provider to maintain pressure and support tissue remodeling.
• Avoid Heavy Exercise if Area Is Irritated: Refrain from activities that stretch or compress the area for several days, especially if it’s in a high-movement zone like the shoulder or chest.
• Do Not Use Harsh Skin Products: Avoid strong cleansers, exfoliants, or alcohol-based products near the treated area, which could irritate healing skin and trigger keloid recurrence.
• Stay Consistent with Follow-Up Appointments: Recurrence is common, so attending every scheduled visit helps monitor the response and adjust the treatment plan based on progress and new symptoms.
• Report Any Signs of Infection Promptly: Unusual swelling, pus, or increasing pain may indicate infection. Contact your clinic immediately so proper antibiotics or care can be provided right away.
  

Though generally safe, some minor risks and side effects are associated with treatment:

• Temporary Redness and Swelling: Mild irritation or swelling is normal after injections or laser therapy and usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days without complications.
• Pigmentation Changes May Occur: Some individuals experience darkening or lightening of the treated skin. These changes are often temporary and can fade with time or proper skincare support.
• Scar Recurrence Is Possible: Despite treatment, keloids may return. Preventive follow-ups, silicone use, and proper skin care help reduce the chance of regrowth significantly.
• Mild Pain or Discomfort Post-Treatment: Some tenderness may follow injections or laser sessions but can be easily managed with prescribed creams or cold compresses applied to the area.
• Skin Thinning from Steroids: Repeated steroid use may cause the surrounding skin to thin slightly. Treatments are spaced carefully to minimize this risk while maximizing scar reduction.
• Infection Risk with Surgical Removal: Surgical excision has a low but present risk of infection, especially if post-op care instructions are not followed. Cleanliness and antibiotics reduce this chance.
• Blistering After Cryotherapy: The freezing process may occasionally cause small blisters, which typically resolve naturally. Proper aftercare ensures quick healing without further complications or scarring.
• Itching or Burning Sensation: Some people report mild itching or warmth during healing. This usually fades quickly and can be eased with cooling ointments or antihistamines if needed.
  

How These Risks Are Managed

At Dr. Shetty’s Cosmetic Centre, your well-being and aesthetic goals are our top priority. We take every step to ensure effective, safe, and lasting keloid treatment:

• Skilled Surgeons and Dermatologists: Our team combines surgical precision with medical expertise to deliver safe and targeted care, minimizing recurrence and maximizing comfort throughout your treatment journey.
• Advanced Technology and Sterile Environment: We use modern lasers, cryotherapy tools, and injection techniques in a fully sterile setting to reduce discomfort, enhance precision, and lower the risk of complications.
• Customized Treatment Plans: Every case is unique. We design a plan tailored to your skin type, keloid size, and medical history, ensuring you receive the most appropriate and effective solution available.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Post-treatment follow-ups and long-term care help prevent recurrence. We educate you on scar care and provide continuous guidance to ensure long-lasting, smooth skin results.

At Dr. Shetty’s Cosmetic Centre, your skin health and comfort are our top priorities. Our state-of-the-art treatments and expert care ensure effective keloid reduction with minimal downtime.

The cost of Keloid Treatment in Bangalore typically starts from ₹5,000 and can go up to ₹30,000 or more per session, depending on the size, location, and type of treatment required. The cost of Keloid Treatment in India varies based on the number of sessions needed, the technology used, and the expertise of the specialist. At Dr. Shetty’s clinic, we offer personalized treatment plans using advanced methods to reduce and flatten keloids safely and effectively. Contact us for a consultation to determine the most suitable approach for your skin.

Key Factors Affecting Keloid Treatment Cost in India:

1. Size and Severity of the Keloid: Larger or more severe keloids often require more sessions and a combination of treatment modalities, which can increase the cost.
2. Type of Treatment Chosen:
   • Steroid Injections: Often the first line of treatment, these start from ₹5,000 per session and may be repeated monthly for several months.
   • Cryotherapy or Pressure Therapy: These methods are suitable for smaller keloids and can range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 or more.
   • Advanced Procedures (e.g., surgical excision combined with follow-up therapy): For stubborn or recurring keloids, treatment costs may start from ₹15,000 and go up to ₹30,000 or more depending on the complexity.
3. Clinic Reputation & Location: Clinics in metro cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi may charge higher rates due to advanced infrastructure and experienced dermatology teams.
4. Specialist Expertise & Equipment Used: The use of modern, targeted equipment by a qualified dermatologist or surgeon can impact pricing, but also ensures greater precision and better outcomes with minimal recurrence.

Why You Shouldn’t Choose Keloid Treatment Clinics Based on Cost

When it comes to treating keloids, choosing the cheapest option may not be the safest or most effective. Here’s why investing in quality care is essential:

• Quality of Results: Improper treatment can worsen keloids or cause them to recur more aggressively. Expert care ensures the keloid is reduced without further irritation or damage.
• Experience Matters: Treating keloids requires specialized knowledge of scar behavior and skin healing. Experienced dermatologists can tailor the treatment plan to minimize recurrence and maximize skin health.
• Advanced Techniques: Reputable clinics use updated techniques and combination therapies that offer better long-term results compared to older, outdated methods.
• Hidden Costs: Some clinics may advertise low rates but exclude essential follow-up sessions, medication, or post-procedure care. Always confirm the full treatment plan and inclusive pricing.
• Risk of Complications: Unskilled handling or inappropriate treatment can lead to infections, pigmentation issues, or larger scars. Choosing a trusted clinic significantly reduces such risks.
• Long-term Investment: Treating keloids effectively often requires a comprehensive, multi-session approach. Investing in quality care upfront prevents unnecessary complications and repeated treatments in the future.