What should you know about the most effective keloid scar removal?

A keloid is scar tissue that grows beyond the original injury. It may feel firm, itchy, tender, or tight, and its colour can differ from nearby skin. Cutting it away alone can leave a new wound that forms another raised scar, so a dermatologist may pair removal with injections, pressure, silicone care, cryotherapy, or laser treatment.

The best option depends on whether the main problem is bulk, redness, discomfort, restricted movement, or appearance. A raised lump can have other causes; a clinician should examine an uncertain or changing lesion before treatment. [Skin Lumps](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) provides related symptom context.

A dermatologist may start with injections into the scar to soften and flatten it. [Steroid Injection Into The Skin](/treatments/injectables/intralesional-steroid-injection/) is one possible approach. Laser treatment can target redness or texture, while [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/) and [Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/pulsed-dye-laser-treatment/) serve different purposes. Cryotherapy may be considered for selected scars.

For a bulky or troublesome keloid, [Keloid Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/keloid-excision/) may be discussed alongside preventive aftercare. Do not pick, pierce, or repeatedly irritate the scar.

Arrange assessment if a scar is enlarging, painful, persistently itchy, bleeding, ulcerated, or limiting movement. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, or rapidly increasing pain after a procedure. These signs can indicate infection or another problem needing examination.

Is this definitely a keloid? Which feature are we treating? How will you reduce the chance of regrowth? Would injections, laser, freezing, or surgery suit this site? What wound care and follow-up will I need?