Keloid Treatment: Diagnosis & Management of Abnormal Scarring
A clear guide to keloids and other forms of abnormal scarring, raised scars that extend beyond the original wound, and the treatments available to improve them.
Treatment usually begins with
Scar Assessment
Injection Therapy
Laser or Procedural Treatment
Recurrence Prevention Plan
Treatment uses steroid injections and, where appropriate, procedural options to flatten and soften the scar, along with measures to reduce the chance of recurrence.
You may need this evaluated if...
A dermatology evaluation is recommended when you notice:
- A scar that is raised, thick or larger than the original wound
- A scar that continues to grow over time
- An itchy or tender raised scar
- Concern about scarring after a cut, piercing or surgery
While keloids can be challenging to treat completely, a range of options can significantly flatten and soften them, and early treatment gives the best results.
What is Keloids & Abnormal Scarring?
Keloids are raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the boundary of the original wound, and other forms of abnormal scarring can also cause raised, tight or discoloured scars, needing a treatment approach tailored to the specific type of scar.
Some Skin Types Are More Prone
Certain individuals and body sites are more prone to developing keloids after skin injury.
Early Treatment Improves Outcomes
Beginning treatment while a scar is still developing generally gives better results than treating an old, established keloid.
Multiple Treatments Are Often Combined
Injection therapy, silicone-based treatment and procedural options are often combined for the best result.
Recurrence Prevention Is Part of the Plan
Because keloids can recur, especially after removal, a prevention plan is an important part of treatment.
Common Symptoms
- A raised, firm scar extending beyond the wound edge
- Itching or tenderness at the scar site
- Scar continuing to enlarge over months
- Discoloration of the scar compared with surrounding skin
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this skin condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A dermatological examination, often supported by targeted tests, confirms the diagnosis and guides treatment.
Clinical Scar Examination
A dermatologist assesses the type, size and characteristics of the scar.
History of the Original Injury
Understanding how and when the scar developed guides treatment planning.
Skin Type Assessment
Identifies your individual risk of further or recurrent keloid formation.
Treatment Response Monitoring
Tracks how the scar responds over a course of treatment.
Treatment Approaches
Medical & Topical Management
- Steroid injections directly into the scar
- Silicone gel or sheeting to flatten and soften the scar
- Pressure therapy for select scars
- Laser treatment to improve colour and texture
Procedural & Dermato-Surgical Care
Surgical removal of a keloid is considered in select cases, usually combined with other treatments to reduce the risk of the keloid recurring.
Treatment is tailored to your specific skin type, severity and how you respond, not a one-size-fits-all regimen.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and seeking timely dermatology care helps prevent scarring and long-term skin damage.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- A small, stable, longstanding scar, seeking cosmetic improvement options
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for urgent care if you notice any of the following.
- A rapidly enlarging, painful, or newly forming keloid, seeking early treatment
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right dermatologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right dermatologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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