Keloids & Hypertrophic Scars: Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to keloid and hypertrophic scars, covering why they form and the treatment options that improve appearance and symptoms.
Treatment usually begins with
Specialist Consultation
Injection or Laser Therapy
Scar Revision Surgery (if needed)
Treatment often starts with injections or pressure therapy, with surgical revision considered for larger or resistant scars.
You may need this evaluated if...
A scar evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- A scar that has grown thicker or raised over time
- A scar extending beyond the original wound edges
- Itching, pain or tenderness at the scar site
- A scar affecting movement or appearance
Keloid and hypertrophic scars are common and manageable, and several effective treatment options are available.
What is Keloids & Hypertrophic Scars?
Keloids and hypertrophic scars are raised, thickened scars that form during abnormal wound healing, with keloids extending beyond the original wound and hypertrophic scars staying within it.
Two Related but Different Scars
Keloids grow beyond the wound margin, while hypertrophic scars remain confined to it.
Can Cause Symptoms
Both types can be itchy, tender or cosmetically bothersome.
Multiple Treatment Options
Injections, pressure therapy, laser and surgery can each play a role depending on the scar.
Recurrence Risk Managed
Combining surgery with other treatments reduces the chance of a keloid returning.
Common Signs
- A raised, thickened scar
- Itching or tenderness at the scar site
- Scar extending beyond the original wound
- Darker or discoloured scar tissue
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, genetic and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A detailed clinical examination confirms the diagnosis and helps plan the right reconstructive or aesthetic approach.
Clinical Examination
Distinguishes keloid from hypertrophic scarring and assesses severity.
History Review
Reviews the original injury and how the scar has changed over time.
Photographic Documentation
Helps track response to treatment over time.
Treatment Approaches
Conservative Care
- Steroid or other injections into the scar
- Silicone sheeting and pressure therapy
- Laser treatment for scar appearance and symptoms
Surgical Care
Scar revision surgery removes the keloid or hypertrophic scar, often combined with injections or radiotherapy in selected cases to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Treatment decisions are based on the extent of the condition, your goals and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly leads to better functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- A thickened or growing scar needing evaluation
- A scar causing itching, pain or cosmetic concern
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Rapid, significant growth of a scar with new symptoms
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