Is this a keloid scar or a hypertrophic scar? I am 2 months post operative from breast reconstruction. I have had one round of steroid injections 4 days ago. My plastic surgeon says that they are keloid scars, but after looking at other's images, I am concerned that he is wrong. Also, I am in intense pain and have severe itching. I cannot wear a bra or have anyone touch the scars.
January 2, 2018
Answer: Keloid or hypertrophic scars? I agree with you that these are hypertrophic scars. Hypertrophic scars typically occur soon after surgery and are limited to the size of the initial scar. Keloid scars typically do not occur for a minimum of 18 months post surgery and will overgrow the initial scar size readily. Fortunately for you hypertrophic scars are far more responsive to conservative management. Continue with the steroid injections every 6 weeks for maybe three episodes. Also, perform scar massage on yourself and apply silicone sheeting. This combination should settle your symptoms and see the scars improve in appearance at 3-6 months. If they do not settle then you have the backup option of a surgical scar revision which you could consider at 12 months post surgery.
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January 2, 2018
Answer: Keloid or hypertrophic scars? I agree with you that these are hypertrophic scars. Hypertrophic scars typically occur soon after surgery and are limited to the size of the initial scar. Keloid scars typically do not occur for a minimum of 18 months post surgery and will overgrow the initial scar size readily. Fortunately for you hypertrophic scars are far more responsive to conservative management. Continue with the steroid injections every 6 weeks for maybe three episodes. Also, perform scar massage on yourself and apply silicone sheeting. This combination should settle your symptoms and see the scars improve in appearance at 3-6 months. If they do not settle then you have the backup option of a surgical scar revision which you could consider at 12 months post surgery.
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October 17, 2017
Answer: Hypertrophic scarring This is a hypertrophic scar. The difference is that keloids grow out of the bounds of the original wound. It is very common for hypertrophic scars to itch and be tender from the inflammation. The steroid injections are helpful with both these symptoms and the appearance. It frequently takes multiple injections to get the scarring under control. After the scar is flat and healing more normally, there are various options to further improve it's look. Make sure to discuss silicone sheeting and laser options with your surgeon.
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October 17, 2017
Answer: Hypertrophic scarring This is a hypertrophic scar. The difference is that keloids grow out of the bounds of the original wound. It is very common for hypertrophic scars to itch and be tender from the inflammation. The steroid injections are helpful with both these symptoms and the appearance. It frequently takes multiple injections to get the scarring under control. After the scar is flat and healing more normally, there are various options to further improve it's look. Make sure to discuss silicone sheeting and laser options with your surgeon.
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