Understanding Keloid Scarring

Most people have a scar somewhere on their body. Whether it is a mark from a childhood accident or a scar from surgery, just about everyone has at least one. Approximately 10% of the population will have scars that develop extra fibrous tissues that grow more than usual. These growths are called keloids. They develop as smooth, hard tissue that may overgrow the boundaries of the original wound.

Keloids develop slowly over time, affecting the appearance of your skin, but they have no effect on your health except in rare instances where the overgrowth may cause issues with mobility. Under normal circumstances, a scab develops over a wound in a few days. Keloids can develop for weeks, months and sometimes even years before they stop growing.

People who are prone to keloids may get them with minor skin damage such as a small cut or abrasion and with larger wounds. These fibrous growths have been known to cover acne spots, burns and vaccination sites. Piercings are also subject to keloid growths.

Keloids Can Affect Anyone

Although this type of scarring is more common in people with darker skin, anyone can develop keloids. People of Asian, Latino and African descent seem to be more prone to developing keloids. Individuals under the age of 30 and pregnant women also seem to have a higher incidence of this condition.

Keloids have no gender preference but there does seem to be a genetic factor. If your parents are prone to develop keloids, there is a chance that you may have inherited the trait. While they may appear on any part of the body, the majority of these scar tissue overgrowths occur on the upper body. Wounds to the neck, cheeks, shoulder, earlobes, chest and back seem to be more affected.

If you know you may develop keloids, you should avoid piercings and tattoos. Avoid any unnecessary skin trauma, particularly to your upper body. If you are not sure, check your family history to find out if you parents have this trait.

Even though keloids are not harmful, they can be disfiguring. Treatment or removal of keloid scars is available at Los Angeles Plastic Surgery. Dr. John Anastasatos is an expert plastic surgeon who can offer you options for addressing keloid tissue. Call today to schedule your consultation appointment and discover your options for improving the appearance of your skin.