Scars are generally grouped into three categories: sunken (atrophic) scars, raised (hypertrophic) scars, and keloids. Anyone can develop any of these different types of scars, but keloid scars seem to be predominant in some people. Keloids are also one of the most difficult types of scar tissue to treat.

Keloid scars can arise from any type of wound: cuts, burns and inflammatory reactions such as acne. As they develop, they begin to extend past the edges of the original site of damage. Sometimes, keloids keep growing for years.

This means that keloid removal can be difficult. Surgical excision is an option for people who have tried everything and still haven't been able to remove the scar tissue, nevertheless, the high recurrence rate of this type of scar can complicate the success of surgery.

Keloid Treatment Plan: a Holistic Approach

Doctors have come to learn that keloid scar removal must be approached from different perspective. In fact, a global treatment plan has offered the most successful way to eliminate keloid scars for good. A combination of surgery, steroid injections and compression therapy is what can make keloid removal successful.

Steroid injections can be used before and after surgery to help flatten the scar. The doctor may also choose to inject steroids directly into the site of the scar during the excision process. Studies have shown that this helps reduce the rate of recurrence.

Compression therapy includes a custom fitted garment that must be worn 24 hours a day. This type of therapy can be used instead of surgery to help treat minor keloid scars, however, it can also be used after surgery to help reduce the possibility of a new keloid formation.

Compression garments or bandages are usually worn anywhere from 6 months to a year or two. No one knows how this works, but there is speculation that the restriction of oxygen can help reduce the biological processes that leads to the development of keloids.

Other Alternatives for Keloid Treatment

Laser therapy has become a successful alternative for keloid treatment. This type of treatment uses a pulsed-dye laser to effectively flatten keloids and reduce the redness they present. However, you may have to submit yourself to various sessions in order to get the best results.

Some doctors use silicone sheets to help reduce the appearance of keloids and other types of scars. They work much in the same way as compression devices do. However, silicone sheets are worn for fewer hours during the day.

If your keloid scar is small you can treat it with cryotherapy. The keloid is frozen with the help of liquid nitrogen. This type of therapy helps flattens the scar but can also cause the site to take on a darkened appearance.