The difference between hypertrophic scars and keloids

Written by Tang Da Wei
General Surgery
Updated on September 13, 2024
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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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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What should I do about hypertrophic scars?

Hypertrophic scar keloids are actually quite common in everyday life. Generally, this type of scarring can be divided into three stages: the proliferative phase, the stable phase, and the recovery phase. If care is not taken, the likelihood of developing such keloids increases. Moreover, the occurrence of hypertrophic scar keloids also relates to an individual's constitution. For instance, those with a scar-prone constitution are more likely to encounter this issue. When such issues arise, it is advisable to use some reparative ointments appropriately to help improve the condition. Additionally, combining massage techniques or localized stimulation methods can also assist in improvement, enabling better recovery. Over time, the scars should gradually fade. Of course, in such cases, methods like laser surgery or dermabrasion can also be used to help eliminate these scar-like keloids, potentially speeding up the recovery. (Please follow a doctor’s guidance for specific medication usage and avoid self-medicating.)

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What are hypertrophic scars like?

Hypertrophic scars are actually directly related to a scar-prone constitution, and generally, when such scars occur, they are divided into several types. The first type is caused by regressive changes, and the outcomes in this situation are generally quite ideal. However, improvement in these cases usually needs to be tailored to the specific circumstances. If the issue with hypertrophic scars is more pronounced, it can be addressed with laser surgery to achieve effective treatment. Of course, it requires specific analysis; not every issue in this regard necessitates intervention, but it should be addressed promptly. Moreover, if a scar-prone constitution persists, it might have some direct impacts. Decisions on improvement can be made based on the specific size of the scar area.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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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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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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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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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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Can hypertrophic scars be massaged?

Hypertrophic scars are relatively common in clinical practice. For instance, a patient who has undergone surgery may develop hypertrophic scars at the incision site, or a patient who has suffered a trauma may develop hypertrophic scars at the site of the injury. Once hypertrophic scars have formed, they can be massaged without any issues. Massage does not lead to a worsening of hypertrophic scars, nor does it cause inflammation, carcinogenesis, or other related conditions. However, it is important to remember to massage gently and not use excessive force.