scarfix

Scars are generally grouped into three categories: sunken (atrophic) scars, raised (hypertrophic) scars, and keloids. Anyone can develop any of these different types of scars, but keloid scars seem to be predominant in some people. Keloids are also one of the most difficult types of scar tissue to treat.

Keloid scars can develop from any type of wound, be it a cut, burn, or inflammatory reaction such as acne. As they develop, they begin to grow past the edges of the original site of damage and may sometimes keep growing for several years.

In other words, removing keloids can be a difficult procedure. Surgical excision is an option for people who have tried other alternatives without success. Nevertheless, the high recurrence rate can complicate the success of surgery.

Keloid Treatment: a Holistic Approach

Doctors are currently more open to trying different approaches to the more traditional scar treatments. In fact, a global treatment plan has offered the most successful way to eliminate keloid scars for good. This implies a combination of surgery, steroid injections, and compression therapy working together to help make keloid removal a success.

Steroid injections can be used before and after surgery to help flatten the scar. The doctor may also decide to inject steroids directly into the site of the scar during the excision process. Studies have shown that this helps reduce the rate of recurrence.

Compression therapy includes a garment that has been custom fitted and should be worn 24 hours a day. This type of therapy can be used instead of surgery to treat minor keloid scars. However, it can also be used after surgery to reduce the possibility of a new keloid.

Compression garments or bandages are usually worn anywhere from 6 months to a year or two. No one knows how this works, but there is speculation that the restriction of oxygen can help reduce the biological processes that leads to the development of keloids.

Other Common Alternatives for Keloid Treatment

Laser therapy is a commonly used for keloid treatment. A pulsed-dye laser can effectively flatten keloids and reduce the redness they present. However, if you do decide to undergo this type of treatment you should know that it may require several sessions before you can see positive results.

Some doctors use silicone sheets to help reduce the appearance of keloids and other types of scars. They work much in the same way as compression devices do. However, silicone sheets are worn for fewer hours during the day.

source: ezinearticles.com