Scarring is the formation of fibrous connective tissue, re-deposition of collagen, and deposition of a thick layer of insoluble, fibrous connective tissue called scar tissue. This occurs in both humans and animals, as a result of an injury, disease, or surgery. The formation of scar tissue is a natural process of wound healing, where the newly formed collagen forms a dense, strong layer to protect the site of injury from further trauma.
Scarring is an essential part of wound healing, as the collagens in the scar tissue form a strong, resilient layer that helps protect the site from further injury and infection. However, too much collagen can lead to excessive scarring, known as keloid formation, which can cause the scar to become unsightly and uncomfortable.
Keloids are raised, rope-like scars that form after healing has occurred. They are not just scars, but actually thick, rope-like growths of tissue that cause puckering and dimpling of the skin. They occur when collagen overproduction exceeds the needs of the body to heal the wound, and develop in areas where the skin has been damaged, such as after a burn or cut. They can be large and irregular, and may even interfere with movement or the performance of activities.
Keloids are most likely to form on the chest, back, shoulders, or ears. They can also form on the arms, legs, and other parts of the body. The main cause of keloids is unknown, but is thought to be due to genetics, skin injury, or infection. They can also be caused by burns, skin piercings, tattoos, skin surgery, and acne. Unsurprisingly, people with darker skin tones are more likely to form keloids.
Keloids are difficult to treat, as most treatments are very costly, painful, and often ineffective. Surgery is the most commonly used approach to remove a keloid, although this is not without risks. After the keloid is removed, there is often a high risk of recurrence. Radiation therapy has also been found to be effective, but is also associated with potential long-term side effects.
Corticosteroids can also be injected directly into the scar tissue to help reduce the size of the keloid. The injection should be done by a trained professional and the number of injections required can vary. Other treatments include cryotherapy, laser therapy, and silicone gel sheets.
It is important to remember that keloids are unpredictable and often difficult to treat, so they may remain even after treatment. With that said, keloid treatment should be done only in extreme cases and always under the advice of a doctor. Whatever treatment is chosen, ensure to follow up treatment with regular check-ups to monitor the progress of the keloid and try to minimize the chance of it becoming more severe.
