How Do Different Keloid Treatment Techniques Compare?

Keloids are a type of raised scar that occurs when the skin overproduces collagen during the healing process. These scars extend beyond the original wound site and can cause both cosmetic and physical discomfort. Over the years, a variety of treatment techniques have been developed to reduce or remove keloids, and each has its own benefits, drawbacks, and effectiveness depending on factors such as the severity of the keloid, its location, and the patient’s skin type.

In this Keloid Treatment in Dubai article, we’ll compare different keloid treatment techniques, examining how they work, the expected results, and how they differ from one another in terms of invasiveness, cost, and recovery time.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections are one of the most common treatments for keloids. They are typically used to flatten the keloid and reduce its size. Corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone, are injected directly into the scar tissue, helping to reduce inflammation and collagen production, which contributes to the keloid’s raised appearance.

How It Works

Steroid injections work by softening the scar tissue and preventing further growth of the keloid. The process involves injecting the medication into the scar over several weeks or months, depending on the size of the keloid and how it responds to treatment.

Pros

• Non-invasive, requiring no surgery.

• Can be done in a clinic, with minimal downtime.

• Reduces itching and discomfort associated with keloids.

• A relatively affordable treatment compared to other options.

Cons

• Multiple sessions may be required for noticeable results.

• Results can vary from person to person.

• Possible side effects, such as skin thinning, pigmentation changes, or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin), especially with prolonged use.

Ideal Candidates

Steroid injections are best suited for smaller keloids or those that are still in the early stages of development. They are not always effective for very large or longstanding keloids.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy, or cryosurgery, is a method that involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen to destroy the scar tissue. The freezing process damages the cells of the keloid and can cause it to shrink and soften over time.

How It Works

The doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the keloid, which causes the tissue to freeze. The freezing process creates small ice crystals within the tissue, destroying the cells and leading to scar reduction. It may take multiple sessions to achieve significant results.

Pros

• Minimally invasive and does not require an incision.

• Can be performed in a clinic setting with little downtime.

• Good for treating smaller keloids or keloids in delicate areas (such as the earlobes).

Cons

• May require multiple treatments.

• The freezing process can be uncomfortable, with possible side effects such as pigmentation changes, pain, or blisters.

• Not always effective for large, thick keloids.

• Can cause scarring or new keloid formation in some cases.

Ideal Candidates

Cryotherapy is best suited for smaller keloids or areas with delicate skin, such as the earlobes or face. It’s often combined with other treatments, such as steroid injections, for enhanced results.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy uses concentrated beams of light to target the keloid, reducing its size and improving its appearance. This method can be used to flatten keloids and reduce redness or pigmentation.

How It Works

Laser therapy works by using either pulsed dye lasers (PDL) or fractional lasers to target the keloid tissue. Pulsed dye lasers work by reducing the blood vessels within the keloid that contribute to its redness. Fractional lasers work by creating tiny micro-injuries in the scar tissue, stimulating collagen remodeling and helping to flatten the scar.

Pros

• Non-invasive with minimal recovery time.

• Helps reduce redness and can improve the texture of the keloid.

• Effective for both flat and raised keloids.

• Can be used to treat large areas or multiple keloids at once.

Cons

• Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

• Can be expensive compared to other treatments.

• Results can vary, and not all keloids respond to laser treatment.

• Potential side effects include skin discoloration, scarring, or swelling.

Ideal Candidates

Laser therapy is most effective for patients with relatively thin keloids or those looking to improve the texture and appearance of a keloid scar, particularly in visible areas like the face or chest.

Surgical Excision

Surgical excision involves physically cutting out the keloid and removing it from the skin. This method is typically used for larger, more stubborn keloids that do not respond to other treatments.

How It Works

The surgeon carefully removes the keloid and the surrounding scar tissue. Afterward, the area may be closed with stitches or left open, depending on the nature of the procedure. The removal process is followed by a recovery period and post-operative care to reduce the risk of the keloid returning.

Pros

• Effective for large keloids or those that have not responded to other treatments.

• Can produce dramatic improvements in the appearance of the skin.

• Allows for removal of keloid tissue in one session.

Cons

• Invasive procedure with a longer recovery time.

• Keloids may return, particularly if the person is genetically predisposed to them.

• Risk of additional scarring or complications from surgery, such as infection or wound healing issues.

• Higher cost and requires anesthesia.

Ideal Candidates

Surgical excision is best for larger keloids or those that have been present for a long time. It is often used when other non-invasive methods have failed.

Silicone Gel Sheets and Dressings

Silicone gel sheets and dressings are often recommended as a non-invasive method to help reduce keloid formation after treatment or surgery. These sheets are applied to the scar area and can be worn for several hours a day.

How It Works

Silicone gel sheets work by applying gentle pressure to the keloid and maintaining hydration in the scar tissue, which can help soften and flatten the scar over time. They are typically used after other treatments, such as excision or laser therapy, to reduce the likelihood of new keloid formation.

Pros

• Non-invasive and easy to use at home.

• Can be used as a preventive measure after other treatments.

• Helps maintain moisture in the scar area, promoting healing.

Cons

• Requires consistent application, which can be inconvenient.

• Results can be slow, and improvement may take weeks or months.

• Not as effective on larger, more established keloids.

Ideal Candidates

Silicone gel sheets are ideal for individuals who are recovering from surgery or laser treatments, as they can help improve the results and prevent the keloid from reforming.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is sometimes used as a last-resort treatment for keloids that are resistant to other forms of treatment. It involves using low-dose radiation to shrink the keloid and prevent it from growing back.

How It Works

Radiation therapy works by targeting the keloid tissue with controlled radiation, which reduces the scar’s ability to grow and minimizes inflammation.

Pros

• Effective for preventing the recurrence of keloids after surgical excision.

• Can reduce the size and hardness of keloids.

• Often used in combination with other treatments.

Cons

• Invasive and involves exposure to radiation, which can carry long-term risks.

• Can cause side effects such as skin discoloration and tissue damage.

• Not widely recommended as a first-line treatment.

Ideal Candidates

Radiation therapy is best for patients with recurring keloids that have not responded to other treatments, particularly after surgical excision.

Conclusion

The treatment of keloids involves a variety of techniques, each with its advantages and limitations. Steroid injections, cryotherapy, and laser therapy are minimally invasive options that work best for smaller or early-stage keloids. Surgical excision is more invasive but is often the best option for large or persistent keloids. Silicone gel sheets are ideal for post-treatment care and prevention, while radiation therapy is reserved for severe cases.

Choosing the best treatment method depends on various factors, including the size, location, and age of the keloid, as well as the patient's overall health and treatment preferences. Consulting with a dermatologist or a specialist is essential to determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.