What kind of scar is developing 6.5 months post-op? Is this keloid? (Photos)

Question

I am 6.5 months post op and noticed this part of my scar that is quite sore and looks more irritated, raised and discoloured than the rest. Is this beginning stages of a keloid? It only appeared about a week ago :(

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question!
This may be a suture coming to the surface. Reach out to your surgeon too have it looked at. Best wishes!

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

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

It’s hypertrophic scar, you can use some creams and silicon bandage to improve the scar. It don’t look like keloid in the picture

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It takes 1-1.5 yeras in your age groop for scar to mature. In some areas (possibly due to a deep suture material) scars may look different and heal longer. There are multiple scar remedies based on silicone that can be used for scar management. This should be discussed with your surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear claireBA16,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jan Hochtritt, BSc, MD · Answer

Scar issues are not uncommon after any kind of surgery. As much as it is the time that a possible keloid can start to develop the picture that you show seems to show more of a local inflammation. May be a reaction to suture material. In order to find out what the cause of the issue is I would strongly suggest that you consult with your doctor For advice

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos and description this may be a suture that is coming to the surface.  Typically this can be addressed in your surgeon's office and heals well with minor home care.  Contact your surgeon for an evaluation.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not a keloid, but you may be developing a stitch abscess or a hypertrophic scar. Please show this to your surgeon.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

That portion of the scar appears to be getting thicker (hypertrophic), not keloid (yet...may never get to tat point, no one knows).  You should return to your surgeon and consider:
A steroid injection
Using silicone tape daily for several months (I use 3M silicone tape 2770-1).  You can find it on Amazon
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.

The scar that you see would be called a hypertrophic scar and not a keloid.  It is possible that that portion of the scar was not completely adequately closed following your surgery.

Of course you should see your plastic surgeon for advice on to how to treat this scar.

Generally speaking compressive therapy with a topical silicon or tape treatment is commonly effective.

One such device is called Mepitac which is an adhesive dressing that can be placed on an hypertrophic scar and reduce erythema and discomfort.  Of course it is important that you see your plastic surgeon for specific advice of your surgeons preferred method to treat the scar and not follow Internet advice.

What kind of scar is developing 6.5 months post-op? Is this keloid? (Photos)

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