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Healing a keloid: what to know

How the structures involved in Keloid Scars differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Keloid Scars differ from normal

Short answer

A keloid does not heal like a simple cut because scar tissue can keep growing; treatment aims to soften, flatten, or reduce symptoms and may require follow-up.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Scar pattern
Extends beyond the original wound
Possible symptoms
Itch, tenderness, tightness, or discomfort

What a keloid is

A keloid is firm, raised scar tissue that grows beyond the original injury, piercing, burn, or surgical line. It may feel itchy, tender, tight, or uncomfortable when rubbed by clothing. Its colour can differ from nearby skin. A new skin lump is not automatically a keloid, so examination matters, especially when the history of an injury is unclear.

Ways it may be managed

Do not cut, squeeze, or repeatedly injure the area. Protect it from friction and use only scar products recommended for your skin. A dermatologist may discuss [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/), laser approaches such as [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/), or freezing with [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/). Surgery can be considered in selected cases, often with a plan to reduce regrowth risk.

When to seek care

Book an assessment if a scar is enlarging, painful, itchy, restricting movement, or catching on clothing. Seek prompt review for bleeding, ulceration, sudden change, warmth, pus, or rapidly increasing tenderness. A specialist can distinguish a keloid from a hypertrophic scar or another skin lump and tailor treatment to its location and thickness.

Questions for your doctor

Is this a keloid or another type of scar? What result is realistic for its site? Would injections, laser, freezing, or surgery suit me? How will the area be monitored after treatment?

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Can a keloid flatten on its own?

Some become less active, but a keloid can remain raised or continue growing, so assessment is useful.

Can surgery be the only treatment?

No. Doctors may combine or compare procedures with injections or other approaches, depending on the scar.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.