Does Keloid Treatment Need a Dermatologist?

Keloid scars, characterized by thick, raised tissue that grows beyond the original wound, can be emotionally and physically distressing. Whether caused by surgery, acne, piercings, or injury, these scars often become a cosmetic concern and may even be painful or itchy. If you’re exploring options for Keloid Treatment in Dubai, you may be wondering whether seeing a dermatologist is essential. In this article, we’ll delve into the necessity of professional intervention in keloid treatment, compare treatment types, and discuss how keloids behave differently from other scars.

What Are Keloids?

Keloids are a type of hypertrophic scar, but unlike typical scars that fade with time, keloids persist and may even continue to grow. They’re the result of an overproduction of collagen during the wound healing process. Keloids do not regress on their own and may become larger than the original wound.

Common Characteristics of Keloids:

Raised and firm texture

Pink, red, or dark brown color

Itching or discomfort

Expansion beyond the original wound

Common on chest, shoulders, back, earlobes, and cheeks

Why Dermatologists Matter in Keloid Treatment

Treating keloids isn’t as simple as applying over-the-counter creams. Unlike regular scars, keloids are medically classified as benign tumors of scar tissue, and their treatment often requires a multi-modal approach. Dermatologists are trained to understand the skin’s biology, and this expertise becomes especially important when dealing with abnormal scarring.

Here are the main reasons why dermatologists are essential in managing keloids:

Treatment Options a Dermatologist May Offer

Corticosteroid Injections

These are one of the most common treatments. Steroid injections flatten the keloid and reduce redness. They are typically administered once every few weeks. However, multiple sessions are usually required.

Cryotherapy

This involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen. It’s particularly effective for smaller keloids. A dermatologist carefully assesses whether the tissue can withstand this kind of treatment without causing damage to surrounding skin.

Laser Therapy

Lasers can reduce both the color and thickness of keloids. Pulse-dye lasers are most frequently used. This is a specialized procedure and must be done in a controlled, clinical setting.

Surgical Removal (Excision)

Surgery is an option, especially for large keloids. However, surgery alone has a high recurrence rate. That’s why dermatologists often combine it with other treatments such as steroid injections or radiation therapy post-excision.

Silicone Gel Sheets or Ointments

While silicone-based products can be used at home, dermatologists usually recommend them as adjunct therapy. They help in flattening scars and can be used in conjunction with other treatments.

Can You Treat Keloids Without a Dermatologist?

While some home remedies and over-the-counter options exist, they are generally less effective and pose the risk of further irritation. Here’s a comparison:

The earlier a keloid is treated, the more responsive it tends to be. If you notice a scar growing beyond the original wound boundary or becoming increasingly itchy or painful, consulting a dermatologist promptly can make a big difference in the outcome. Early intervention can prevent the keloid from becoming more embedded and complex to treat.

Keloids and Skin Types

Keloid formation is more common in individuals with darker skin tones. People of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent are at higher risk. Dermatologists take this into account when selecting treatment modalities, as some methods, like laser therapy, must be used with extra caution to avoid pigmentation issues.

Prevention Is Key

Dermatologists not only treat keloids but also help patients learn how to prevent them:

Avoid unnecessary piercings or tattoos.

Treat acne early to prevent scar formation.

Apply silicone sheets to healing wounds.

Avoid skin trauma or tight clothing on healing areas.

FAQ’S:

Can I treat a keloid at home?

While some topical gels and silicone sheets are available for home use, their effectiveness is limited. Once a keloid is fully formed, it’s best to seek professional treatment.

Are keloids dangerous?

Keloids are not cancerous, but they can be uncomfortable, itchy, and emotionally distressing due to their appearance. In rare cases, very large keloids may interfere with movement or function.

Will a keloid go away on its own?

No, keloids do not go away on their own. They can continue to grow over time.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies based on the size, age, and location of the keloid. Some people require multiple steroid injections or a combination of therapies for optimal results.

Can a keloid return after removal?

Yes, recurrence is a known issue with keloids. Dermatologists often combine surgical removal with other therapies like corticosteroids or radiation to reduce the chance of the scar returning.

Conclusion

Keloids are more than just cosmetic concerns—they are complex skin lesions that often require nuanced, clinical treatment. While minor scarring might be manageable with at-home remedies, keloids almost always benefit from professional evaluation and care. A dermatologist doesn’t just treat the scar—they guide you through a prevention and management plan that ensures long-term results and minimizes recurrence.