Does this look like a keloid scar? Will cortisone injections work? (photos)

Question

This scar on my leg was formed due to picking an ingrown hair. It looks like a keloid scar to me and hasn't reduced in 2 years. Will cortisone injections help me? How many would I need and approximately how much do cortisone injections cost? Thanks!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your photo it appears that you would benefit from various lasers and modalities to improve the appearance of your hypertrophic scar.  I would recommend an in-person consultation for exact specifications on treatments.  The typical patient wanting scar therapy on keloids or hypertrophic scars starts with CO2RE laser and/or Vbeam laser depending on their skin type (color.)  In addition, microneedling is a great option.  Multiple treatments are usually required and injections can be done intermittently as needed.  Our new Sublative Fractional RF handpiece is also a great option with very little downtime.Hope this helps.  Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I would suggest an in person consultation with an expert for evaluation. Hypertrophic scarring should be treated in a combination approach with lasers along with steroid/5fu injections. Please see an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Greg Chernoff, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your photo, this looks more like a hypertrophic scar rather than a keloid. Injections of a steroid can help to flatten it. Best wishes.

Does this look like a keloid scar? Will cortisone injections work? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar Therapy

Answer: Scar Therapy

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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Does this look like a keloid scar? Will cortisone injections work? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar Therapy

Answer: Scar Therapy

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.