I have a keloid on my nose and the side of my face. What is the best procedure to remove it? (Photo)

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.

Massaging your scar can reduce inflammatory mediators that are responsible for chronic inflammation and scar overgrowth. It’s a rather simple technique that inactivates celluar inflammation mechanisms that can lead to keloid and hypertrophic scars. Start by applying a thin coat of Plato's Scar Serum twice daily to the scar and gently massaging the scar footprint. Be gentle, taking care not to slough off newly formed skin and reducing shear force on the dermis. This is ideal for new and old scars.
• Twice daily application of a scar gel.
• Scar modulation with gentle massage.
• Intralesional injections in case there is overgrowth of scar tissue.
• Vascular lasers for neovascularization of scars.
• Stimulatory injections for scar atrophy.
Scar gels work well, but should be combined with a physician-directed protocol to reduce scar formation and reduce scar visibility.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
The Scar Doctor
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Based on
your photographs, you may benefit from surgical excision and closure.  Depending on your insurance coverage and symptoms (pain or itching), this can sometimes be covered by insurance.   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 surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Keloids can be improved with a combination approach 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

Thank you for your question. Keloid scars can be treated with cryotherapy which is used freeze keloids and stop their growth. Other options include steroid injections, laser treatment and surgery. For more information, please make sure you get a in person consultation from a board-certified dermatologist.