Is my scar keloid or hypertrophic?

What’s the difference between a hypertrophic scar and a keloid scar? The key visible difference between hypertrophic and keloid scars is the degree of the spread of the scar around the original wound. With hypertrophic scars, the extra connective tissue that forms within the original wound stays within that area.

Is a hypertrophic scar raised?

Like keloids, these scars are usually raised and red. But, they occur only at the site of the injury. They can be itchy or painful, but this often improves as the skin completely heals.

How do I know if my scar is keloid?

What you see on the skin

1. Appear slowly. It can take 3 to 12 months or longer to see the first signs of a keloid.
2. Begin as a raised pink, red, or purple scar.
3. Grow slowly.
4. Feel soft and doughy or hard and rubbery.
5. Cause pain, itch, or tenderness.
6. Be fixed in place.
7. Become darker in color with time.

Can hypertrophic scars turn into keloids?

In the majority of cases, hypertrophic scarring develops in wounds at anatomic locations with high tension, such as shoulders, neck, presternum, knees and ankles (9,12,13), whereas anterior chest, shoulders, earlobes, upper arms and cheeks have a higher predilection for keloid formation.

How do you flatten hypertrophic scars at home?

Pressure and massage: One of the cheapest and most effective ways to help heal the scar is to apply pressure and massage to the area. You can use bandages or tape to apply pressure. Over time, it can help weaken the scar tissue and improve the appearance of the scar.

Do keloids flatten over time?

Keloids tend to shrink and become flatter over time, even without treatment. Initially, your doctor will probably recommend less-invasive treatments, such as silicone pads, pressure dressings, or injections, especially if the keloid scar is a fairly new one.

Do all hypertrophic scars flatten over time?

Generally, hypertrophic scars don’t cause complications. They usually fade and flatten over time, even without treatment.

What’s the difference between a keloid and a hypertrophic scar?

Unlike keloids, a hypertrophic scar is a red, thick and raised scar. It forms when there is excess tension around a healing wound. This scar flattens after several months and becomes flat and pale. The healing area is thicker than usual when there’s lots of tension on a healing wound.

Is it common to get hypertrophic scars after surgery?

Research has shown that hypertrophic scars are exceptionally common after surgery and after burn injuries. Talking to your surgeon about your history with keloid or hypertrophic scarring can also help.

Where are hypertrophic scars most likely to develop?

There is no hard and fast rule to predict who or even which skin lesion will develop into a hypertrophic scar or a keloid. The areas over the sternum ( upper chest), deltoid (shoulder) and the upper back tend to have an increased risk of keloid and hypertrophic scar formation.

How is bio oil used to treat hypertrophic scars?

More research is needed to confirm that Bio Oil can effectively reduce the appearance of hypertrophic scars. Before treating a hypertrophic scar, it’s important to differentiate it from a similar type of scar called a keloid. Keloid scars are smooth, hard, benign growths that also form when scar tissue grows excessively.

Is there cure for keloid?

There is no “cure” for keloids. Keloids can be problematic, particularly if enlarging, are painful or itch, or ulcerated and bleed. For small ones silicone sheeting or gels may help decrease redness and height, but there is very little you can do on your own.

How long does it take a hypertrophic scar to heal?

Hypertrophic Scar healing time is quite long. It generally takes anywhere from 12 to 18 months to heal naturally. With good hypertrophic scar management and treatment however, the scars can go away in 2-3 months.

Is keloid a heriditary trait?

The tendency to form keloids is speculated to be hereditary. Keloids can tend to appear to grow over time without even piercing the skin, almost acting out a slow tumorous growth; the reason for this tendency is unknown.

What are the different types of keloid scar treatment?

Treatment may include the following: Steroid injections. Steroids are injected directly into the scar tissue to help decrease the itching, redness, and burning sensations that these scars may produce. Cryotherapy. Cryotherapy involves the scar being frozen off. Pressure therapy. Silicone dioxide. Surgery. Laser surgery. Radiation.