Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar Therapy

Keloid is exuberant scar tissue that goes beyond the original border of surgery or trauma. Hypertrophic scar is excess scar tissue that stays within periphery of original scar.  Prevention is obviously preferable to treatment and any fresh scar incurred should prompt consultation with a board-certified dermatologist. Sun protection and scar massage may be important for the first couple months of a new scar. Application of silicone gel or sheeting can be quite helpful for a relatively new scar.

Intralesional steroid injection is the tried and true medical therapy for keloid or hypertrophic scar. A board-certified dermatologist may utilize intralesional steroid injection of varying strength and repeat injection as necessary every 4-8 weeks. There may be some risks of skin atrophy, pigmentary changes, and development of networks of fine blood vessels of surrounding areas where intralesional steroid is injected. Intralesional steroid injection of symptomatic keloid or hypertrophic scar is typically covered by most PPO insurance carriers and Medicare. Application of prescription-strength potent topical steroid, imiquimod and/or topical 5-fluorouracil may be considered. Radiation therapy should be considered as the very last resort given its potential morbidity and risk of future malignancy of tissue and organs near the treated area.

GenesisPlus Advanced Laser Therapy for Hypertrophic Scar 
is an innovative modality to treat and accelerate scar remodeling, minimize redness associated with scar and enhance cosmesis. GenesisPlus also softens and relaxes the tension in scars, improving mobility for the patient. Dr. Ting recommends a series of 4 GenesisPlus Advanced Laser Therapy for hypertrophic scar, sometimes in combination with intralesional steroid injection.


Keloid scar treated with Cutera GenesisPlus


Hypertrophic scar on chest treated with Cutera GenesisPlus


Keloid scar on right jawline treated with Cutera GenesisPlus


Hypertrophic surgical scar and associated redness after Mohs surgery on nose treated with Cutera GenesisPlus


Hypertrophic surgical scar and associated redness after Mohs surgery on right upper lip treated with Cutera GenesisPlus