What to expect from steroid injection for a hypertrophic scar

The clinician places corticosteroid into the thickened scar tissue. The medicine can reduce activity within the scar, which may make it less firm, raised, itchy, or uncomfortable over time. The scar is examined first because thickness, location, colour, and whether it stays within the original wound all affect the plan.

Expect a brief sharp sensation or pressure during injection, followed by possible tenderness. The scar will not usually change immediately. Several treatment visits may be discussed, with the response checked between them. A hypertrophic scar can improve in texture without disappearing, and the result may differ from one scar to another.

Tell the clinician about poor wound healing, skin infection, diabetes, medicines that affect immunity, allergies, and any previous steroid-related indentation or colour change. After treatment, keep the site clean, avoid scratching or pressing the scar, and follow instructions about dressings, silicone products, massage, or sun protection.

Watch for changes in firmness, height, itch, and pain rather than judging the result immediately. Steroid placed too close to normal skin can cause thinning, a depression, or a lighter patch. Report these changes early so the next treatment can be adjusted.

Contact the clinic if redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or discharge increases, or if the scar opens or you develop fever. Seek prompt help for rapidly spreading redness or severe pain. Ask for review if the scar grows beyond the original wound, becomes increasingly itchy or painful, or changes quickly, since another scar type or treatment may need consideration.

How will we measure softening or flattening? How many visits might be considered for this scar? What should I use between appointments? Which signs suggest skin thinning or infection, and when should another treatment be discussed?