$Unique_ID{BRK00656}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Are There Any Treatments Available to Remove a Keloid?}
$Subject{surgery scar keloid treatment}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are There Any Treatments Available to Remove a Keloid?


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QUESTION:  I have an ugly overgrown scar called a keloid.  I want it removed,
but don't know how to go about it.  Are there any treatments available to help
me, and what do they consist of?  What type of doctor can deal with this
situation?

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ANSWER:  Let's take the last part of your question first, because it is the
easiest part of your question to answer.  To begin with, you may need to
consult a dermatologist (often called a skin doctor) and you need to be
treated by one who is experienced in the use of x-ray and laser therapy.  In
some cases, particularly keloid scars about the face, the skills of a plastic
surgeon may be required to remove these scars, and prevent new ones from
recurring.  Your family doctor can help you chose the proper physician to
consult and locate the appropriate specialist.
     Unfortunately, all treatments of keloids up to this time have been less
than perfect.  But don't be disheartened, the treatments can, and do, help to
correct the unsightly conditions.  Among the newer treatments are those
including the removing of the scars with a special type of laser surgery, plus
daily applications (to the keloids) of a high-potency steroid-containing
medicine, injections of corticosteroids into the scar itself, and/or low-doses
of x-ray treatments to the keloid.
     That entire series of treatments takes about four to eight weeks.
Patience will have to become your byword since additional treatments may be
required which may continue for as long as two years.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
