Keloid Scar Treatment
Dear Dr Reichel,
I have two keloid scars on my chest. The first is a flat keloid just below my neck. The second is about 3 inches below that and raised and is very sensitive and looks much worse. I am wondering if you have a way to diminish or remove these scars without making them worse. Please contact me back when you have a free moment. Thank you for you time. - JE
Dear JE - thank you for your question.
There are definitely ways to help keloid scars. The most common treatment for keloids on the chest, neck, or back, is to use a combination of a laser treatment and injections. The laser that we use is a pulsed dye laser, called the Vbeam Perfecta. It is the best laser for treating keloid scars. The injection that we use is a steriod called kenalog (triamcinolone). Sometimes I will mix the kenalog with another medicine called 5-fluorouricil (5-FU). The treatment does cause a bit of discomfort, but it is not too bad.
It is always a series of treatments. We usually plan on 4 to 8 treatments. We space them about 4-6 weeks apart. Sadly, there is no way to make keloid scars go completely away. But, we can lighten them, make them flatter, and help with the symptoms of pain and itching. We can almost always do a treatment at the consultation appointment if you would like. Also, sometimes insurance will pay for all, or a portion, of the treatment.
Please call our office in Seattle – 206-859-5777 to set up an appointment. Thank you for the inquiry.
Dr R
Jennifer Reichel MD
Director, Pacific Dermatology & Cosmetic Center
pacificderm.wpengine.com
