Keloid plastic surgery: what to know

Keloid surgery removes the visible overgrown scar and closes the wound carefully. It may be considered when a keloid is large, painful, repeatedly irritated, restricts movement, or has not improved enough with other care. The procedure creates a new wound, and the body’s tendency to form excess scar tissue remains. The final scar may take time to settle and may not match surrounding skin.

The surgeon should confirm that the lump is a keloid and discuss its location, depth, previous treatment, skin type, and any history of difficult scarring. A treatment plan may involve dermatology and surgery together.

Before surgery, share your medical history, medicines, allergies, prior keloids, and plans for piercing or elective procedures. Ask how the wound will be closed and protected, how activity and friction should be limited, and whether additional scar treatment will start after healing. Do not pick at dressings or apply products unless instructed.

Attend follow-up visits even when the wound looks healed. Early firmness, itching, thickening, or extension beyond the incision can be discussed promptly. Options after surgery may include injections, laser treatment, or other scar care.

Contact the surgical team for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, wound separation, pus, persistent bleeding, fever, or redness spreading away from the incision. A new firm ridge or enlarging scar also deserves review, especially if it begins extending beyond the original surgical line.

Ask why surgery is recommended, what non-surgical options remain, how the incision will be monitored, and what additional treatment may reduce regrowth. Ask about wound care, activity limits, likely colour and texture changes, and which symptoms require urgent contact.