Keloid is the term given to scar tissue that becomes overgrown. Any time an injury occurs to the skin or if a person experiences acne, surgery, large blisters, vaccinations, or even body-piercings, it can damage the skin. In turn, this can lead to the formation of scar tissue sometimes in excessive amounts. On rare occasions, keloids can form on the skin even when there has been no visible injury or break to the skin.
What Does a Keloid Look Like?
A keloid will usually appear on an area of formerly injured skin, but they can extend further at times. They typically present as rounded, smooth, shiny skin elevations and are either brown, pink, or purple in color. When touched, they may feel
- Rubbery.
- Doughy.
- Firm.
- Itchy.
- Tender and painful.
If a keloid is large enough and resides on skin that covers a joint, they may interfere with that joint’s function.
How Can a Dermatologist Help?
A dermatologist can diagnose whether an issue with a person’s skin stems from an actual keloid or if it is something else. They may decide to perform an on-the-spot biopsy in order to be certain. Once they are certain of the diagnosis, dermatologists have a number of treatment options available, including
- Corticosteroids or other medications.
- Laser treatments.
- Cryotherapy.
- Surgical removal.
- Radiation Treatment.
- Application of a pressure dressing to prevent reoccurrence.
When is Keloid Removal Necessary?
It’s not uncommon for a keloid to return after surgical removal, so dermatologists will typically try conservative treatment methods first. Still, if a keloid prevents the normal use of a joint, or if it is particularly painful or itchy, a dermatologist may choose to remove the keloid tissue through a surgical procedure. To ensure the keloid doesn’t come back afterward, a dermatologist may employ other treatments such as radiation, and/or the wearing of a pressure dressing to discourage regrowth of the keloid.
Complexions Dermatology, with office locations in both Danville Va and Richmond Va, offers a full treatment menu of dermatology options, including removal of keloids. If you are in need of expert dermatology care, contact us to schedule an appointment!