Keloids can be challenging to treat and often require a combination of therapies to achieve the best results[1]. Common treatment options include:
- Corticosteroid injections: These are often used to shrink the keloid. Multiple injections may be needed, and they’re usually more effective when combined with other therapies[3].
- Silicone gel sheeting and pressure therapy: Silicone sheets or pressure dressings worn for extended periods can help flattenand soften keloids, especially in newly formed or post-surgical keloids[7].
- Laser therapy: Pulsed-dye laser sessions can flatten and improve the color of keloids. Multiple treatments may be required, and combining with steroid injections can yield better results[8].
- Cryotherapy: Freezing smaller keloids with liquid nitrogen can reduce their size and firmness but may cause skin color changes[2].
- Surgical removal: Excision can be performed but recurrence is high unless combined with other treatments such as corticosteroid injections, pressure therapy, silicone sheets, or radiotherapy[4].
- Radiation therapy: Low-dose superficial radiation, especially when used within 24–48 hours after surgical removal, can minimize recurrence. It is reserved for severe or refractory cases and not suitable for children, pregnant women, or certain body areas[6].
- Other treatments: Alternatives include interferon, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), bleomycin, and verapamil injections, which may help reduce keloid size and symptoms, especially when combined with steroids or silicone therapy[7].
No single treatment is universally effective, and recurrence rates can be high. Combining multiple approaches—such as surgery with corticosteroids or pressure therapy—offers a better chance of long-term improvement. Consulting a dermatologist or plastic surgeon is strongly recommended for a personalized strategy[1].
References
- [1] Emerging and Novel Therapies for Keloids: A compendious review
- [2] Keloid Scar Treatments: Do They Work?
- [3] Keloid Treatments | Northwestern Medicine
- [4] Surgery for Scars & Keloids
- [6] Management of keloid scars: noninvasive and invasive treatments
- [7] Management of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars – AAFP
- [8] Keloid scar – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
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