Should I consider excising my hypertrophic chest scar? (Photo)

Question

About 2 years ago I had a nasty cyst grow on my chest. Eventually this cyst was drained of fluid but grew into a big hypertrophic scar. I've since had the scar biopsied, but the scar grew back. Then, I had kenalog injected into the scar which caused a deep depression for 9 months and eventually had the excess kenalog removed until the hypertrophic scar grew back. Should I consider excising the scar or leave it be?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

At least from the photos provided, the scar looks like it could be shrunk and flattened using intralesional 5-FU, which can be used as an alternative to Kenalog or combined with Kenalog in such a concentration as to minimize the chance for steroid atrophy. I am concerned that excision would simply lead to another, larger scar with ?tram track" stitch marks. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar specialist. Best of luck.

Jeffrey A. Klein, MD · Answer

At HK Dermatology, we have two possible treatments for keloids and hypertrophic scars. Surgical scar excision followed by 2-3 days of superficial radiation therapy (beginning the next day) boasts a 95% cure rate. For smaller scars, or scars that are not appropriate for excision followed by SRT, we have a novel approach to Kenalog injections that is pain free and very successful.

We are located in Southern California, but there are dermatology centers scattered across the country that can provide SRT Keloid treatment.

Should I consider excising my hypertrophic chest scar? (Photo)

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Should I consider excising my hypertrophic chest scar? (Photo)

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