A keloid is a type of scar which results in an overgrowth of tissue at the site of a healed skin injury. Keloids are firm, rubbery lesions or shiny, growths at the site of the original skin injury and can vary from pink to flesh-colored or red to dark brown in color. A keloid scar can have itchiness, sharp pains and changes in texture. For some, keloids are a cosmetic problem, although it can still be very upsetting, especially for younger patients.

There are several treatment options for treating keloids. What should be remembered is that while keloids are an unfortunate response to tissue healing, they are not dangerous, and usually a cosmetic concern. Keloids can recur despite the treatment option chosen, and often several different techniques are used simultaneously to promote shrinking of keloids and to prevent recurrence. A consultation visit with Dr. Behroozan can help in deciding which option is right for you.

Lasers can be used remodel unwanted, damaged skin. Patients can usually return to work or regular activity the same day, but skin may stay pink or bruised for several weeks. Several different lasers are available depending on the skin type. A pulsed dye laser such as the Vbeam Perfecta Laser, for example, uses yellow light to remove scar redness and to flatten raised scars. This laser can also improve itching and burning sensations in the scar. Acne scars or other indented scars can be improved with laser skin resurfacing. Thick, raised scars or keloids typically need two or more laser treatments at monthly intervals

Keloids treatments in Los Angeles

Cortisone (steroid) injections or tape are effective in softening very firm scars (or keloids) causing them to shrink and flatten. This treatment is popular for thick scars and keloids and can help flatten these scars and help with symptoms. The Vbeam Perfecta Laser can also be used simultaneously to optimize results and improve long term results. There is a limit to how many cortisone injections you can have, as long term adverse events with cortisone injections are possible if performed incorrectly or too frequently. These should be discussed with Dr. Behroozan prior to your treatment.

The Vbeam Perfecta Laser is a pulsed dye laser that targets the vascular component of keloids and other thick scars leading to shrinkage of scars, improvement in tone and texture, as well as flattening and dramatic improvement in redness. As there are minimal side effects using this treatment option, this treatment, unlike cortisone injections, can be repeated over and over without adverse results or consequences. Dr. Behroozan can discuss with you how many treatments would be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Silicone sheets and massage have also been proven to help shrink keloids or prevent recurrence. Be sure to discuss this option with Dr. Behroozan to maximize your results.

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When all other options have been exhausted, surgery and surgical intervention may be considered for treatment of your keloids. Dr. Behroozan has extensive surgical experience, and especially given his expertise as a Mohs Skin Cancer specialist, he has the ability to help you with your surgical evaluation and preparation for excision and reconstruction following removal of your keloid. It should always be remembered that keloids can recur following surgical intervention, and unfortunately, it is impossible to predict if this will happen. Be sure to discuss this with Dr. Behroozan prior to surgery. Recently, a FDA approved medication called imiquimod (Aldara) has been shown to possibly decrease the risks of keloid recurrence following excision. Dr. Behroozan may prescribe this medication to you following surgery as well as the use of silicone pressure earrings if your keloid is on your ear.

Dr. Behroozan is always available to answer any questions about keloids, or any other cosmetic or medical skin concerns you may have. With two office locations in your preferred choice either Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, getting in touch with one of America’s top rated dermatologists for over 5 years in a row has never been easier. Contact Dr. Behroozan today to schedule your complimentary consultation!