If you are self-conscious about your appearance or have physical discomfort due to keloids, the experienced and knowledgeable dermatologists at Elite Dermatology can help. We are proud to provide safe, effective treatments for keloids at each of our six practice locations in the greater Houston area. We utilize the latest proven technologies and techniques to deliver exceptional results, and we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care to our patients at every step of the treatment process.
What Is a Keloid?
A keloid is a type of raised, or hypertrophic, scar. Unlike other raised scars, keloids grow much larger than the wound that caused the scar. Keloid scars can be very noticeable, often affecting the patient’s self-esteem. Additionally, they can become itchy or even painful without treatment.
Keloids most commonly form on the ears, neck, chest, back, and shoulders but can develop anywhere on the body where the skin has been injured. People who are prone to keloids can develop them after any form of trauma to the skin, including piercings, tattoos, burns, and surgery.
Keloids typically develop slowly over time. It can take up to a year to see the first sign of a keloid.
What Is the Most Effective Keloid Treatment?
The most effective approach for treating keloids is surgical removal followed by radiation therapy. Superficial radiation therapy uses low-dose X-ray energy to target and eliminate the cells responsible for excessive scar tissue formation. Radiation therapy for keloids is painless and typically results in little to no side effects.
This method has demonstrated a 95% success rate in preventing keloid recurrence, which occurs in nearly 100% of patients who undergo keloid removal surgery alone.
Schedule a Consultation
The dermatologists at Elite Dermatology are trained and experienced in the most advanced and effective keloid treatment techniques. If you are ready to explore your keloid treatment options, contact us to schedule a consultation today. We have practice locations in Vintage Park, Pearland, Fulshear, Kingwood, Heights, and River Oaks to serve patients throughout the greater Houston area.
How Do I Know if I Have a Keloid?
If you develop a keloid, you’ll likely notice one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Excessive growth – Following trauma, your scar may begin to grow and spread to cover an area larger than the original wound.
- Abnormal texture – When you touch the scar, it may feel different in texture than the rest of your skin. The consistency of keloid scars can range from soft, to rubbery, to hard.
- Discoloration – Keloids can be brown, red, pink, or purple and tend to be darker than the normal color of your skin.
Discomfort – Keloids can be itchy or painful.
Am I a Candidate for a Keloid Treatment?
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you may be a candidate for a keloid treatment:
- Do you want to ease the pain or itch associated with your keloid?
- Will flattening or softening the keloid help you feel better?
- If you have a keloid on your ear, is your primary goal to wear earrings again?
The best way to find out if you are a candidate for a keloid treatment is to meet with one of the qualified dermatologists at Elite Dermatology for a consultation. During your consultation, the dermatologist will examine the scar(s) you want to treat, speak with you about your goals for treatment, and review your medical history in order to determine if you are a candidate.
How Are Keloids Treated?
Since every patient has unique needs and goals, the dermatologists at Elite Dermatology create a customized treatment plan for each patient, often combining modalities to support optimal outcomes. Our keloid treatments can involve one or more of the following:
- Injections of corticosteroids or other medications
- Surgical removal
- Laser therapy
- Cryotherapy
- Image Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT)
What To Expect with Radiation Treatment for Keloids
After your dermatologist or surgeon removes the keloid, you will return for three consecutive radiation therapy sessions. Your first visit will take place within 24 hours of surgery and last about an hour. During this visit, you’ll meet with your radiation therapist, go over the details of your treatment, and receive your first session of radiation therapy. The second and third visits will be shorter, around 10 to 20 minutes each, where you’ll receive additional radiation treatments.
How Much Does Keloid Removal Cost?
The cost of your keloid treatment will reflect the specifics of your customized care strategy. Keloid treatment price details will be reviewed with you during your consultation after your dermatologist has developed your personalized treatment plan.
Keloid Treatment FAQs
Will a keloid scar go away?
Keloid scars will not go away on their own. Thankfully, successful treatment outcomes are more accessible now than ever. Using a combination technique that pairs surgical keloid removal with radiation therapy, our dermatologists have helped countless patients achieve their cosmetic goals and improve their quality of life.
Can keloid scars on ears be treated?
Yes, ear keloids can be treated, including those caused by ear piercings. During your initial consultation at Elite Dermatology, our dermatologist will determine the optimal treatment approach for you based on the severity of the keloid, your medical history, and other factors.
Keloid vs. piercing bump: what is the difference?
A keloid forms due to excessive collagen production during the healing process, causing an overgrowth that protrudes out from the skin and extends beyond the piercing site. In contrast, a piercing bump is caused by irritation, infection, or trauma around the piercing. Piercing bumps are typically smaller than keloids from piercings and usually remain confined to the piercing site. Medical intervention is necessary to get rid of keloids, while piercing bumps often resolve with proper aftercare.
