Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic provides assessment and treatment advice for suitable keloid scars.

A keloid is an abnormal raised scar that grows beyond the original area of skin injury. Unlike a usual scar, a keloid can continue to grow over time and may become firm, thick, itchy, tender, painful or sensitive to touch. Keloids may also cause concern because of their appearance, especially when they occur on visible areas such as the face, ears, neck, chest or shoulders.

Keloids can develop after acne, piercings, burns, cuts, surgery, vaccinations or other forms of skin injury. Some people are more prone to keloid formation, particularly those with a personal or family history of keloids or darker skin types.

Treatment of keloids can be challenging, and no single treatment works for everyone. The aim of treatment is usually to reduce symptoms such as itching, pain and tenderness, flatten or soften the scar, improve appearance where possible, and reduce the chance of further growth.

Treatment options may include corticosteroid injections, silicone gel or silicone sheets, pressure therapy, cryotherapy, surgical removal in selected cases, or referral for other treatments such as laser or specialist scar management when appropriate. Surgical removal alone is not always recommended because keloids can recur, and sometimes return larger than before. For this reason, surgery is usually considered carefully and may need to be combined with other treatments.

During consultation, Dr Sharma will assess the scar, discuss previous treatments, explain suitable options and provide realistic advice about expected outcomes, risks, recurrence and follow-up care.

Please contact the clinic to arrange an assessment for keloid scar treatment.