Aesthetic surgery · Body, breast and appearance

Keloid scars

Understand a thick scar that grows beyond the original wound.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

A keloid is a raised scar that keeps growing beyond the original wound because too much collagen is produced.

It is firm, smooth and shiny, may itch or hurt and can restrict movement near a joint.

It may follow a cut, burn, surgery, acne or piercing; risk is higher in some skin types and after a previous keloid.

Assessment reviews onset, symptoms, impact and expectations, examines the area and checks for a medical cause that should be treated first.

Tests are not routine; imaging, blood tests or specialist review are selected when a change is new, painful, asymmetrical or unusual.

It can appear weeks to years after injury and grow for months or years; it usually does not flatten by itself.

Silicone, steroid injections, cryotherapy or laser may improve symptoms and appearance; excision alone often recurs more extensively.

Seek assessment if the concern persists, affects function or strongly affects wellbeing, to discuss benefits, limits, alternatives and risks.

A scar that is hot, very painful, swollen or producing pus may be infected and needs prompt assessment; unusual growth should be examined.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.