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Will my keloid scar ever go away?
In most cases, scars usually grow smaller and fade over time, but in some people, the skin can overreact to the damage and lead to scars that are much larger than the original wound. These scars are called keloids. Keloid scars, which are typically thick and irregular, rarely go away on their own.
Is keloid a complication of thyroidectomy?
The complications after thyroid surgery include bleeding, wound site infection, keloid formation, recurrent laryngeal nerve and superior laryngeal nerve injury, temporary and permanent hypocalcemia, and injury to surrounding structures such as esophagus, artery, vein and the cervical sympathetic trunk.
How do you flatten a keloid scar?
Treatments that may help flatten a keloid scar include:
- steroid injections.
- applying steroid-impregnated tape for 12 hours a day.
- applying silicone gel sheeting for several months.
Can you fix keloid scars?
Larger keloids can be flattened by pulsed-dye laser sessions. This method has also been useful in easing itchiness and causing keloids to fade. Pulsed-dye laser therapy is delivered over several sessions with 4 to 8 weeks between sessions. Your doctor might recommend combining laser therapy with cortisone injections.
What happens if you leave a keloid untreated?
Keloids aren’t contagious or cancerous. A keloid is different from a hypertrophic scar. A hypertrophic scar stays within the bounds of the original wound and can fade over time without treatment.
How do you get rid of scar tissue after thyroid surgery?
– Silicone gel (such as Kelocote or Spectragel) is a thick, clear gel that comes out of a tube and may be preferred for scars on the neck. It should be applied twice daily for 3–4 months.
Should you massage a keloid scar?
Research has shown that gently massaging a scar may break down scar tissue as it forms. It may also prevent hypertrophic scars or keloids from developing after an injury.
How do you stop a keloid from growing?
To get the protection you need, use a sunscreen that offers SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection, and water resistance. As soon as the wound heals, begin using silicone sheets or gel. Applying silicone sheets or gel can help prevent keloids from forming and reduce the size of existing scars.
Do keloids flatten on their own?
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.
How long does it take for a thyroid scar to heal?
Incision Scar You may feel a firm ridge directly over the incision. This is normal and will soften and go away when healing is complete usually in 3-6 months.
How do you break up keloid scar tissue?
Dermatologists may inject a corticosteroid solution directly into a hypertrophic scar or keloid, which may help reduce its size. Steroids break the bonds between collagen fibers, which reduces the amount of scar tissue beneath the skin.
What makes a keloid bigger?
Collagen — a protein found throughout the body — is useful to wound healing, but when the body produces too much, keloids can form. Keloid growth might be triggered by any sort of skin injury — an insect bite, acne, an injection, body piercing, burns, hair removal, and even minor scratches and bumps.
Why does my keloid keep getting bigger?
When the skin is injured, it sends collagen-making cells to heal the wound. Ideally, the cells do their job and close the injury, leaving a small scar. With keloids, the skin’s cells continue to multiply even after the wound has healed. The scar tissue continues to grow, forming a large, raised scar.
How do you break up scar tissue after thyroidectomy?
Rub in a circular motion with your fingertip. Use steady pressure along the entire length of the scar. The area may be sensitive to touch at first. Slowly increase the amount of pressure with massaging.
How can I reduce scarring after thyroid surgery?
Continue to avoid trauma to the incision. Apply a light coating of Vaseline or antibiotic ointment over the incision multiple times throughout the day (can stop this after two to three weeks). Keep incision out of the sunlight, or if expecting exposure to sunlight, apply sunscreen (45 SPF or greater) to incision.
What are the signs and symptoms of a keloid scar?
A keloid scar may form within months to years of the inciting injury. Signs and symptoms might include: Thick, irregular scarring, typically on the earlobes, shoulders, cheeks or middle chest
Can a keloid form for no reason?
Sometimes keloids form for no obvious reason. Keloids aren’t contagious or cancerous. A keloid is different from a hypertrophic scar. A hypertrophic scar stays within the bounds of the original wound and can fade over time without treatment.
Can you get keloid scars on your chest?
It can occur wherever you have a skin injury but usually forms on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks or the chest. If you’re prone to developing keloids, you might get them in more than one place. A keloid scar isn’t harmful to your physical health, but it can cause emotional distress.
Can you get a keloid on your elbow?
Keloid on the elbow A keloid scar is a thick raised scar. It can occur wherever you have a skin injury but usually forms on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks or the chest. If you’re prone to developing keloids, you might get them in more than one place.