What treatments can help with keloid scar management?

A keloid is a growth of scar tissue made up of collagen. It arises on the injured site (occasionally without an injury) and spreads to neighbouring places. A keloid is typically characterised by a red lump of skin that is exceedingly irritating and grows in size over time. Some people have purple or brown pimples instead of red. Keloids can also get infected and quite painful in some instances. Although keloids can affect anyone, people with darker skin tones are more susceptible to getting affected by them. They commonly grow on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and ears.

Keloid scars are benign and not contagious; however, they cause severe pain, itching and changes in their structure. If one is looking for the best keloid treatment in Delhi, one can visit Skinology Clinic located at Rajouri Garden (West Delhi) and Vasant Vihar (South Delhi) locations in Delhi to get effective treatment with dermatologist, Dr. Nivedita Dadu

Following are the most common causes of keloid formation:

• Injury
• Burn
• Acne
• Surgery
• Blisters
• Piercing
• Vaccination. 

Most Prevalent Keloid Symptoms Are As Follows:

• A raised scar tissue that looks like a hump at the site of a healed skin injury.
• Pigmentation of the skin
• Irritation
• Pain
• Itching
• Redness.

Treatments for Keloids Scars:

Keloids rarely pose a serious threat to a patient's health. However, they can be uncomfortable and annoying at times. Furthermore, they could be more appealing to the eye. As a result, many people wish to get rid of them as quickly as possible. Fortunately, keloid treatments are provided by the best dermatologist in Delhi, Dr. Nivedita Dadu and her team of expert doctors. Some are invasive, while others are entirely non-invasive. 

Keloid Removal Surgery

Although most people do not wish to remove keloids surgically, as it is unavoidable in the case of large, old keloids, the massive lump on the skin is removed during this procedure.

The keloid scar is removed during keloid surgery. While this may appear to be a permanent solution, the chance of keloids recurring is rather significant. As a result, the doctor may suggest further treatment following surgery to lower the risk of its recurrence. For example, surgery should be combined with postoperative Low-Dose Radiotherapy (LDRT) within the first 6 to 24 hours following surgery to minimise early wound healing cascades.

Steroid injections for Keloid

These are administered directly into the keloid scar tissue and help reduce the scar's size and the redness, itching, and burning sensations. Intralesional corticosteroid injections, such as triamcinolone acetonide, may help minimise inflammation, flatten the scar, and relieve symptoms such as discomfort and itching. Multiple injections at 4-6 week intervals are typically required for this treatment.

Laser treatment for Keloid

Pulsed-dye lasers can be used to heal keloid scars, even huge ones. This treatment not only improves the scar's appearance but also helps relieve irritation and discomfort caused by the lesion. Multiple laser sessions four to eight weeks apart are usually recommended to minimise keloid appearance properly.

This treatment has no serious adverse effects, but bruising can sometimes occur

Radiotherapy for Keloid

Radiation therapy may aid in treating keloid scars by lowering inflammation and reducing excessive collagen production. Radiation therapy might be used after surgery to prevent the spot from recurring.

A linear accelerator (LINAC) can give electron beam radiation therapy for keloid scars. Radiation therapy is typically initiated 24 to 72 hours after surgery and may be provided in up to five sessions within one week.

The number and duration of treatment sessions, as well as the results of treatment, will differ between patients. Although side effects are possible, they are usually mild to moderate. Some patients, for example, report moderate skin redness immediately after treatment, which usually disappears after 3 to 4 weeks.

Keloid Scar: Prevention and Care

Preventing keloid growth is a vital component of dealing with these scars. While not all keloids may be avoided, taking the following actions may limit their development:

• Reduce skin trauma: Take caution when undertaking elective skin procedures such as piercings, tattoos, or cosmetic surgery. If an individual is prone to keloids, speak with the doctor before undertaking any techniques that may harm the skin.
• Proper wound care: Proper wound care is important after any skin damage to aid healing and limit the risk of infection. Avoid picking at scabs, and keep the area clean and protected with a sterile dressing.
• 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.
• Sun protection: Avoid excessive sun exposure because ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause keloids to darken and become more visible. When going outside, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothes, and seek shade.

Aside from prevention, it's critical to keep an eye on any pre-existing keloid scars for size, colour, or texture changes. Consult a dermatologist in Delhi, Dr. Nivedita Dadu, if an individual detects any new symptoms, such as pain, itching, or an increase in the size of the keloid scar, for a comprehensive evaluation and suitable treatment suggestions.