In basic terms, a keloid is a scar that keeps on growing. While a normal scar covers an area that was cut or damaged, a keloid starts out that way and then grows to cover adjacent areas as well. In most situations, a person has a tendency to get keloids. While not any scar will develop into a keloid, many of them will if you have this tendency. People without this predisposition will almost never get them. If you suffer from this problem, you need to be sure to see a dermatologist anytime you have a deep cut or a wound that does not heal quickly. Here are a few ways cosmetic dermatology can help.

Laser Removal

A dermatologist can use a laser to "shave off" the scar tissue. This will take a number of visits and may require you to use prescription creams or ointments between visits. In addition to reducing the scar tissue, it will also lessen any red pigmentation to the area.

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections work to stimulate the blood flow to the area. This will help to flatten the scar so it is not as noticeable. Over time, the keloid will be flattened to the rest of the skin around it. Unfortunately, the increased blood flow will also increase the redness of the scar tissue. While the area will be flat, it will still be red. Once the scar is flattened, the cosmetic dermatologist may suggest a laser treatment to reduce the redness.

Surgery

For an especially large keloid, your doctor may recommend having surgery to reduce the size. This is not done to completely remove the keloid because the surgery may actually cause the scar to grow even further. Once the surgery is complete and has healed, you should have laser treatments or cortisone injections to get rid of the remaining scarring. This will also help reduce the risk of further keloids from the surgery.

While it is not always possible to avoid cuts that develop into keloids, if you are predisposed to getting them, you need to take extra precautions to avoid creating any scars. Do not indulge in body piercings as they are often a place that keloids will form. Wear thick gloves when working with tools or materials that may cut you. In addition, it is best to not get any tattoos as they may cause an infection that will lead to permanent scarring and keloids. If you are ever unsure of whether a keloid is forming or not, see a cosmetic dermatologist. It is always better and the treatment easier if this problem is caught in the initial growth stage.

For more information, contact local professionals like Greater Des Moines Dermatology, P.C.