What should I do about auricular keloids?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Auricular keloids are a relatively common clinical condition, which may be related to an individual's scar constitution. Firstly, it is necessary to examine the size of the keloid. If the keloid is small, without obvious enlarging, redness, pain, infection, or inflammation, this situation generally can be considered for observation followed by regular ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist follow-ups to check for any rapid growth. However, if the keloid is large and progressively growing, surgical removal should be considered. After the surgery, local superficial radiation therapy can be considered to help prevent postoperative recurrence.

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What should I do if I have pain from hypertrophic scars?

Once an injury occurs, it is very likely to develop hypertrophic scars, and the appearance of such scars is related to the individual's constitution, often accompanied by symptoms such as pain. When this condition occurs, specific treatments are definitely needed for improvement, typically using laser surgery as the main treatment, or it can be removed at once through surgical operation, which helps improve the condition. Of course, hypertrophic scars can also be improved through some physical therapy methods, such as by adjusting in different degrees, like acupuncture, which can fade the scars by improving local blood circulation. However, physical therapy is just one aspect; consistent improvement in lifestyle habits to avoid recurrent stimulation of hypertrophic scars is also crucial for recovery.

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Can keloids be cured?

Once keloids appear, they are essentially irreversible, meaning that they cannot be completely cured clinically. The formation of keloids is mostly related to one's own constitution, such as a keloid-prone skin type. Some keloids are also due to trauma occurring in areas of the skin where muscular tension is relatively high, or where the wound is indeed large and deep, which might lead to the formation of keloids. In such cases, localized drug injections can be used to reduce and soften the keloids. One can also use ointments that soften scars, such as keloid soothing and softening cream, but these require long-term application to be effective. If the keloid is relatively small, cosmetic surgery to remove and re-sew the area can also be an option for treatment. In summary, once keloids have developed, they are not easy to completely cure.

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The difference between hypertrophic scars and keloids

In a strict sense, hypertrophic scars and keloids are similar in their pathogenesis. For hypertrophic scars, the typical presentation is localized overgrowth at the scar site, which means that there is an overgrowth during the wound healing process, resulting in a relatively large and numerous scar. Keloids represent a more severe condition where there is a localized raised scar on the wound, which can be significantly large, sometimes resembling a bug on the surface of the scar. They are more likely to occur in areas like the neck, behind the ears, and under the earlobes. For the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids, if the patient has a predisposition to scarring, considerations include early intervention during wound suturing and healing, such as injection of medications or radiation therapy.

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What should I do if a keloid is itchy?

Keloids can be very itchy when at home. You can use some cryotherapy such as applying ice for treatment. However, if the results are unsatisfactory, it might be necessary to visit a hospital for a comprehensive treatment, including medication. Treatment based on the condition can control these symptoms. The itching occurs because the skin's metabolic system is damaged, causing metabolic products to accumulate in the scar.

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Can hypertrophic scars be effectively treated?

Hypertrophic scars are related to constitutional issues, generally directly associated with congenital genetic factors. Thus, while it is possible to improve the condition of hypertrophic scars, it is impossible to completely remove them, as altering such constitutional issues entirely is very challenging. When dealing with hypertrophic scars, one can choose various methods to alleviate the condition, such as improving local tissue vitality through massage, which can promote skin regeneration and thus mitigate the effects of hypertrophic scars. Additionally, treatments for hypertrophic scars can include laser surgery or the use of medications that invigorate blood circulation and disperse blood stasis. Importantly, preventing wounds and thus avoiding scar formation is crucial for optimal prevention. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate).