Scar from childhood, is this a keloids scar? Treatment options? (photo)

Question

I got this scar as a child From a U nail. I didn’t get stitches and really didn’t take care of it. It is located on my trunk. Is this a keloids or did it heal this way be I didn’t properly care for the wound? Is there anything I can do for it now. The scar is really raised.

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's difficult to determine the best solution for you without the benefit of a formal evaluation. Generally speaking, scars can be improved with a combination of surgery and/or lasers and microneedling with PRP. Below is a more detailed reference list of the treatments available. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert to determine which is best for your specific case. 
Options can include:
1. Vascular lasers (BBL, Yellow laser, V-Beam, Excel V) 
2. Fractional lasers (Fraxel, Erbium, CO2, Halo) 
3. Microneedling/PRP 
4. Silicone-based scar gels with growth factors 
5. Excision/revision surgery 
See an expert to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer​

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

The photo is a bit unclear. But, the scars do appear to be keloid in nature. Happily, these kinds of scars can be flattened via the use of intralesional injections with anti-inflammatory agents, such as triamcinolone +/-5-FU in varying amounts and concentrations. Make sure to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist with experience in scar treatments. Best of luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Cabelasman270,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photo, it doesn't look like keloid scar. You will probably benefit the most from scar revision. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph. It's difficult to evaluate your skin through this type of forum. The scar might be a keloid or it can be an atrophic scar, but an in-person evaluation needs to be done to help determine what type of scar you have. Then appropriate treatment options can be discussed such as injections or microneedling, etc. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to have your scar evaluated and to discuss appropriate treatment options. Take care and good luck.

Scar from childhood, is this a keloids scar? Treatment options? (photo)

Answers (5)

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