Keloids are raised and thickened scar tissues that result from excessive collagen production during the healing process following an injury. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuğba Falay Gür specializes in understanding the causes of keloids and providing effective treatment options.
Causes
While the exact cause of keloid formation is not fully understood, several factors contribute to this process:
- Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of keloids are more prone to develop them.
- Severity of Injury: Skin trauma such as cuts, burns, surgical procedures, or injections can lead to keloid formation.
- Skin Type: People with darker skin tones are at a higher risk of developing keloids.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels may influence keloid formation.
- Infections: Post-injury infections can increase the risk of keloid development.
Symptoms
Keloids typically appear after an injury and present with the following characteristics:
- Raised and Elevated Tissue: The scar extends beyond the boundaries of the original injury, appearing raised and prominent.
- Shiny and Reddish Color: Keloids often appear shinier and redder compared to the surrounding skin.
- Firm Texture: The tissue feels hard and lacks elasticity when touched.
- Itching and Pain: Itching, tenderness, or pain may occur in the keloid area.
- Uncontrolled Growth: Keloids may continue to grow beyond the original injury site.
Treatment Methods
Several treatment options are available for managing keloids:
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections help reduce the size of the keloid and alleviate itching.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen helps shrink its size.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can improve the appearance and color of keloids.
- Surgical Removal: The keloid tissue is surgically excised; however, this approach is often combined with other treatments to prevent recurrence.
- Pressure Therapy: Special pressure garments or tapes are used to inhibit keloid growth.
- Radiation Therapy: Low-dose radiation is applied after surgery to minimize the risk of recurrence.
Prevention and Management
To prevent keloid formation, the following precautions can be taken:
- Avoiding Injuries: Minimizing skin trauma reduces the risk of keloid development.
- Prompt and Effective Treatment: Early intervention following an injury lowers the risk of infections and keloid formation.
- Steroid Use: Applying corticosteroids during the wound healing process can prevent keloid formation.
- Pressure Application: Using pressure therapy after surgery can help prevent keloids.
- Sun Protection: Protecting the keloid area from sunlight prevents discoloration and improves its appearance.
Skin Care and Lifestyle
Proper skin care and lifestyle adjustments are essential for managing keloids:
- Gentle Cleansers: Clean the keloid area gently to avoid irritation.
- Moisturizing: Keeping the skin hydrated improves the elasticity of keloid tissue.
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants supports overall skin health.
- Adequate Sleep: Sufficient sleep aids the body’s healing process.
- Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress promote better skin health.
Appointment and Contact
For more information on keloids (scar tissue) and expert advice, please contact us using the provided details. Trust Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tuğba Falay Gür’s expertise for a healthy and aesthetic skin.
