Should I go to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist to remove some keloids?

Question

I had a bbl done about two years ago and due to a family emergency I wasn't able to lay and rest like I was supposed to. During that time I left my stitches in too long and as a result I have some keloids. I've already had them flattened but I still don't like the sight of it when I want to wear a bathing suit. What can I do?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Keloid scars are characterized by their growth potential and increased degree of inflammation within the skin. Unlike non-inflamed scars, keloids have the potential for growth beyond the original footprint of injury. Our office specializes in the management of keloids, whether single or multiple, using a combination platform that includes lasers, RF, scar modulation, Parke-Davis Scar Protocols, and injection therapy. Some keloids will require surgical intervention as an initial step for treatment. 
Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself 100 Surgeon

Brian S. Biesman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  There can be many reasons why patients do not like the look of scars including texture, color, and thickness to name just a few.  A true keloid scar would not have flattened out so it is possible that you may be dealing with a partially resolved hypertrophic scar or even an atrophic scar.  The treatment will depend on what type of scar you have, its location, and your goals.  I strongly recommend seeing a physician who is highly experienced in the treatment of unwanted scars to determine your options.  Best of luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Keloids can be improved with a combination of lasers, microneedling/prp, and 5/FU steroids. Surgery with or without radiation is an alternative. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  It is more important that you find a physician who can manage all aspects of your keloid care rather than simply what their specialty training is.  However, if you need a surgical excision and closure of your keloid, this should be performed by a plastic surgeon, who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a scar expert you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified expert who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Scarring these days can be minimized in multiple ways. Different specialties can be equally beneficial to help you.
Choose an expert. Best. Dr Brecht
Seattle, Wa

Should I go to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist to remove some keloids?

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