Our bodies are designed to protect themselves. If your immune system detects something foreign, the response is to get rid of it as quickly as possible. If you contract a virus, your body will begin to heat up in an attempt to rid itself of the bug, leading to a fever. This same process occurs if you sustain what your body identifies as an injury. The result can be a buildup of scar tissue called a keloid.
What are Keloids?
Keloids are overgrowths of scar tissue at the site of trauma to your skin. They can occur anywhere on your body. One of the most common areas for keloid growth is around ear piercings. As the wound heals, scar tissue forms to begin replacing the old, displaced tissue. Sometimes the body over-produces this scar tissue, resulting in a small mass that is much larger than the original injury. Keloids can also develop as the result of surgery, acne, tattoos or chicken pox.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop keloids, but there are certain factors that increase your chances of developing a keloid.
- Skin Color – Darker skin is 15 to 20 times more likely to develop keloids.
- Genetics – There seems to be a genetic component to keloid development.
- Age – Keloids tend to appear in people age 30 or younger.
Can Keloids Be Removed?
There are treatment options available for keloids. Corticosteroid shots can be administered to help shrink the scar. Cryotherapy can help reduce the hardness and size of the keloid. Silicone sheets can help flatten the keloid. Laser therapy can help lighten the color of the keloid and flatten it. Surgical removal involves cutting out the keloid. It is beneficial to apply pressure treatment after surgical removal to lesson the chances of the keloid returning.
Keloids can be embarrassing, unsightly and even painful. The good news is there are treatments available. If you have a keloid that is causing you to feel less self-confident, give our office a call at (404) 963-6665 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Dr. Stong and the staff at Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC are here to guide you with expert advice on keloid removal.
