A keloid is the formation of a large scar after an injury to the skin from trauma, an incision, or piercings. In normal healing, a scar forms, strengthens and contracts overtime. A keloid reaction is caused by an over reactive immune system. The scar does not stop growing and it creates a wide, discolored, and raised scar. In patients that have a history of keloid formation or in patients where I am performing a keloid excision, there are unique steps I take to prevent the formation of keloids.
FIRST STEP
A keloid is caused by an injury to the skin. During a procedure involving a keloid in Charlotte, after I make the incision on the skin, I do not touch the skin again during the surgery. I believe touching or squeezing the skin during the surgery can causes unwanted trauma to the skin. I believe this trauma may stimulate a keloid formation. In order to complete the procedure, I manipulate the tissues beneath the skin to prevent injury. While this may seem like a small detail, every detail counts to prevent the formation of keloids.
SECOND STEP
When I stitch up the incision, I place sutures beneath the skin to bring the skin edges together. This places the tension on the incision below the level of the skin. This allows a tensionless closure to the skin. Tension on the skin can cause the scar to widen overtime and stimulate the formation of a keloid for my patients in Charlotte.
THIRD STEP
Wound modulation is the technique to prevent the immune system from becoming over-active. I inject medications that slow down or turn off the cells responsible for creating a keloid. The medication I most commonly inject is 5-fluorouracil mixed with a small amount of steroid. I have used 5-fluororuracil for years to prevent the formation of keloids with great success. I will inject the medication immediately after completing the procedure and continue with a series of injections 2-4 weeks after the procedure.
Learn More About Keloid Surgery in Charlotte Today
A keloid reaction in Charlotte can create a poor outcome to an otherwise successful procedure. I have created a plan for my patients to allow the best chance to avoid a keloid after a procedure. If you’re suffering from a keloid and woud like to learn more about how I can help you overcome the condition, I encourage you to contact my practice in Charlotte today.