What are the treatment options for keloid scars?

A keloid is scar tissue that grows beyond the original wound and may remain raised, firm, itchy, tender, or darker than nearby skin. Steroid injections can reduce inflammation and help a thick scar soften and flatten. Pulsed dye laser treatment may target redness, while fractional laser treatment can alter the scar surface and texture. Cryotherapy freezes scar tissue and may be considered for selected lesions. Keloid removal surgery removes the raised tissue, but a keloid can return after an operation, so a dermatologist may discuss follow-up treatment as part of the plan.

Arrange a dermatology assessment before choosing a procedure. Tell the clinician when the scar appeared, whether it is growing or causing itch and pain, and whether you have had keloids after previous injuries or operations. Do not cut, scratch, or repeatedly traumatise the area. Your clinician may combine approaches, adjust treatment over several visits, or focus first on symptoms and movement if the scar lies near a joint. Protecting healing skin from irritation and sun exposure can also help limit noticeable colour change.

Seek a prompt assessment for a scar that is enlarging, bleeding, ulcerating, becoming increasingly painful, or restricting movement. Arrange medical review if a supposedly healed wound develops a new firm lump or if the diagnosis is uncertain, because other skin growths can resemble a scar. After treatment, contact the clinic about spreading redness, worsening swelling, drainage, fever, or pain that is not settling.

Ask which feature of the keloid guides the recommended treatment, whether an injection or laser plan needs repeated visits, how recurrence will be monitored after removal, and what skin-care steps are appropriate while the area heals.