Do keloids from piercings raise my risk of having a scar with keloids?

Question

I am scheduled for a tummy tuck in a few weeks. I am wondering if my skin is prone to keloids from piercing's, if that means that my scarring will also do the same?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Keloids have a predilection for the earlobes, chest, back, neck, and shoulders. Keloids tend to afflict those people that are more pigmented, with blacks being the most susceptible. Keloids may be symptomatic; commonly causing itching, tenderness, and pain. The etiology of keloids is unknown. Keloids remain difficult to treat under even the most optimal of conditions, and they frequently recur.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You will want to discuss your history of keloids with your surgeon.  There are many scar treatments available that can help with favorable healing.  Therapies such as Brijit, steroid injections, and silicone sheeting are just a few options.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gregarious477981,
scar prevention begins in the OR during the surgery when I meticulously close wounds in multiple layers in order to reduce tension and reduce scars width. I tape my incisions during the early postoperative period to reduce micromotions of the tissues so the incision can heal earlier. I also use compression garments and later Biocorneum gel.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gilbert Lee, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your upcoming tummy tuck! The answer to your great question is maybe. Do you have other areas on your body that have keloids from scars or trauma? There are a few different techniques that surgeons can use to decrease the risk of keloids. You should let your surgeon know your concerns in advance of your surgery day. They will be able to assess your risk and put together a plan that works best for you. Good luck!

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Ear piercing "keloids" may be the result of an inflammatory reaction to the metallic earring backing, a smoldering infection, or may be the result of a true keloid tendency. Does a keloid tendency run in the family? Do you have scars elsewhere that have healed poorly? There are modalities to inhibit the development of adverse scarring. Moisturization and the application of silicone gel sheeting to the healing scar may retard thick scarring.Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.Best wishes...

Do keloids from piercings raise my risk of having a scar with keloids?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Does the presence of an ear piercing keloid predict poor scarring elsewhere?

Answer: Does the presence of an ear piercing keloid predict poor scarring elsewhere?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Do keloids from piercings raise my risk of having a scar with keloids?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Does the presence of an ear piercing keloid predict poor scarring elsewhere?

Answer: Does the presence of an ear piercing keloid predict poor scarring elsewhere?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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