What is the first treatment tried for hypertrophic scar?

A hypertrophic scar is a raised, firm scar that stays within the original wound edges. An intralesional steroid is placed into the scar tissue rather than spread only over the surface. It can reduce excess scar activity, helping the area become flatter, softer, and less itchy or tender over time.

The choice depends on the scar's location, thickness, age, symptoms, and how the skin has healed. Treatment is planned carefully because an injection can sometimes cause a lighter or thinner patch in the treated skin.

A clinician will examine the scar and ask about growth, discomfort, previous treatments, and any history of unusual scarring. Several treatment visits may be considered, with the response checked before deciding whether to continue.

If the scar remains raised or its texture is a concern, fractional laser treatment may be discussed as another option. Scar revision surgery is generally reserved for selected scars when a procedure is appropriate; removing a scar does not remove the possibility of another raised scar forming.

Arrange a skin assessment if a scar is enlarging, becoming painful, repeatedly itchy, restricting movement, or changing after an injury has healed. Seek prompt medical attention for spreading redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or a wound that is opening, since these features can signal infection rather than ordinary scar activity.

Ask whether the scar is hypertrophic or another type of raised scar, what injection approach fits its thickness and position, how skin colour and texture will be monitored, and when a different treatment should be considered.