What are Keloid Scars?
Keloid scars are a type of abnormal scar that develops when the skin’s healing process becomes overactive. Unlike normal scars, which fade and flatten over time, keloids continue to grow and can form raised, firm, and sometimes shiny lumps on the skin. These scars often extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound and may vary in colour from pink to dark brown, depending on your skin type.
Keloids can appear anywhere on the body after skin injury, including acne, surgical incisions, burns, trauma, piercings, or even minor cuts. While keloid scars are not harmful to general health, they can be cosmetically concerning and sometimes cause discomfort such as itching or tenderness.
People who are prone to keloid formation may notice that scars become larger and more prominent over time, making early intervention and proper management important for the best outcomes.
Common Causes of Keloid Formation
Keloid scars can develop in response to a variety of skin injuries or trauma. Some individuals are more genetically predisposed to keloid formation, but the condition can affect anyone. Understanding the common triggers can help patients take preventive steps, especially if they have a personal or family history of keloids.
The most common causes of keloid formation include:
- Acne: Persistent or severe acne lesions may heal with keloid scars, particularly on the chest, back, and jawline.
- Surgical Wounds: Any surgical incision, such as those from cosmetic or medical procedures, can result in keloid formation.
- Burns or Trauma: Burns, cuts, or blunt injuries to the skin increase the risk of abnormal scar development.
- Vaccinations: Injection sites may occasionally develop keloids, especially in individuals with a predisposition.
- Piercings: Ears, nose, and other body piercings are frequent sites for keloid scars, especially if the wound becomes irritated.
- Skin Infections: Infections that damage the skin’s deeper layers can sometimes heal with keloid scarring.
Because keloid scars may develop weeks or even months after the initial skin injury, it is important to monitor wound healing closely and seek medical advice if you notice excessive scar growth.
C-Section (Cesarean) Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are commonly seen after Caesarean section (C-section) procedures. During a C-section, a surgical incision—typically four to six inches long—is made along the lower abdomen to deliver the baby. In most cases, this wound heals with a thin, faint line. However, some women may experience an overgrowth of scar tissue, resulting in a keloid.
C-section keloid scars usually appear as thick, raised, and sometimes reddish bumps along the incision site. While these scars do not pose a health risk, they can cause cosmetic concerns, discomfort, or even itching in some cases.
Women with a personal or family history of keloids, or those with darker skin types, are generally at higher risk of developing keloid scars after a C-section. Early assessment and appropriate management can help improve scar appearance and prevent further progression.
If you notice that your C-section scar is becoming raised, firm, or increasingly prominent, it is advisable to seek a medical consultation for proper evaluation and treatment options.
Keloid Scar Removal & Treatment Options in Singapore
There are several proven options for keloid scar removal and management in Singapore. The best approach often depends on the size, location, and characteristics of the keloid, as well as individual patient factors. A thorough medical assessment is recommended to determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Keloid Injections
Keloid injections are widely regarded as the first-line treatment for keloid scar removal in Singapore. This minimally invasive procedure involves delivering anti-inflammatory medication directly into the keloid, helping to flatten, soften, and reduce the size of raised scars.
How Do Keloid Injections Work?
The most commonly used medication for keloid injections is a corticosteroid, which helps reduce inflammation and suppress excess collagen production in the scar tissue. Triamcinolone acetonide is frequently chosen due to its proven effectiveness and safety profile.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A fine needle is used to inject the corticosteroid directly into the keloid. The procedure is quick and well tolerated. Most patients feel only mild discomfort, and numbing cream can be applied to enhance comfort if necessary.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Noticeable improvement can often be seen after just one injection, with keloids shrinking by 50% to 90% in size. Larger or more persistent keloids may require several sessions, typically spaced about four weeks apart. Maintenance injections may be recommended three to four times a year to prevent recurrence.
Benefits of Keloid Injections
- Rapid reduction in keloid size and thickness
- Improvement in scar texture and flattening of raised areas
- Relief from itching, tenderness, or discomfort
- Minimally invasive, with no downtime required
Who Is Suitable for Keloid Injections?
Most patients with raised or thickened scars can benefit from keloid injections. However, a detailed consultation is needed to assess suitability and develop a personalized plan.
Potential Side Effects
Keloid injections are generally safe, but possible side effects include localized swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, repeated treatments may result in skin thinning, hypopigmentation, or the appearance of small blood vessels.
Silicone Scar Gel
Silicone scar gel is a first-line topical treatment recommended for the management of keloid and hypertrophic scars. It is widely used due to its ease of application, safety profile, and ability to improve scar appearance over time.
How Does Silicone Scar Gel Work?
Silicone gel is a topical treatment widely used for managing keloid and hypertrophic scars. It forms a thin, protective layer over the scar, which helps regulate hydration and creates an optimal environment for skin healing. This reduces excessive collagen production and can gradually soften and flatten raised scars.
What to Expect with Daily Application
To achieve the best results, silicone gel should be applied directly to the keloid scar once or twice daily for several months. Consistent use over a period of at least four to six months is recommended. The gel dries quickly, making it suitable for use under clothing and on most areas of the body.
Effectiveness of Silicone Scar Gel
Clinical studies have shown that regular use of silicone gel can improve the texture, colour, and height of keloid scars. It is particularly effective for new or smaller keloids and is often used in combination with other treatments, such as keloid injections, to enhance overall outcomes.
Benefits of Silicone Scar Gel
- Non-invasive and painless
- Suitable for all skin types and ages
- Can be safely combined with other keloid treatments
- May reduce itching and discomfort associated with scars
Who Is Suitable for Silicone Scar Gel?
Silicone scar gel is appropriate for most individuals with keloid or hypertrophic scars, especially those seeking a gentle, at-home treatment. It is ideal for patients with fresh scars or for those who prefer to avoid injections or surgical options.
Potential Side Effects
Silicone gel is generally very safe, with minimal risk of irritation or allergic reaction. Rarely, minor redness or sensitivity may occur at the application site. If irritation develops, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
Laser Keloid Removal
Laser keloid removal is a specialised treatment that utilises advanced laser technology to improve the appearance and texture of keloid scars. This approach is particularly effective for patients seeking a minimally invasive solution when other treatments have not provided satisfactory results.
How Does Laser Keloid Removal Work?
Laser therapy for keloid scars uses focused light energy to target and resurface abnormal scar tissue. Ablative lasers—such as the carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser—are the most commonly used for keloid removal. These lasers precisely remove layers of thickened scar tissue, stimulate collagen remodelling, and encourage healthier skin regeneration.
What to Expect During Laser Treatment
During the procedure, the skin is usually numbed with topical or local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort. The laser device is passed over the keloid, delivering controlled energy to the scar. Most sessions last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of keloids being treated. After treatment, mild redness, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation may occur but usually subsides within a few days.
Effectiveness of Laser Keloid Removal
Laser treatment is often most effective for reducing the height, redness, and overall appearance of keloid scars. However, it is rarely used as a standalone therapy. For best results, laser treatment is typically combined with other modalities such as keloid injections or silicone gel to lower the risk of recurrence and enhance scar softening.
Benefits of Laser Keloid Removal
- Targets thick, stubborn, or recurrent keloids
- Improves skin texture and pigmentation
- Can be safely combined with other treatment options
- Suitable for patients who have not responded well to conservative therapies
Who Is Suitable for Laser Keloid Removal?
Laser keloid removal may be considered for patients with large, raised, or resistant keloids that have not improved with topical treatments or injections alone. A thorough consultation is necessary to determine candidacy, as certain skin types or medical conditions may require special consideration.
Potential Side Effects
Laser treatments are generally safe when performed by an experienced doctor. Temporary side effects include redness, swelling, mild discomfort, or skin sensitivity. Rare risks include infection, pigment changes, or delayed healing. Proper aftercare and sun protection are essential to support optimal recovery.
Keloid Removal Surgery
Keloid removal surgery is a procedural option aimed at physically excising excessive scar tissue when less invasive methods have not achieved desired results. It is typically considered for patients with large or symptomatic keloids that significantly impact comfort or function.
How Does Keloid Removal Surgery Work?
Keloid removal surgery involves the physical excision of the raised scar tissue using surgical techniques. The goal is to remove as much of the abnormal tissue as possible and restore a smoother skin surface. This procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia in a clinical setting.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
During the procedure, the affected area is carefully marked, numbed, and the keloid tissue is excised with precision. The wound is then closed with fine sutures to minimise further scarring. Most patients are able to return home the same day. Post-operative care instructions will be provided to support healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Effectiveness and Limitations of Keloid Removal Surgery
While surgical excision can provide immediate removal of keloid scars, it carries a high risk of recurrence. In some cases, new keloids may develop at the site of surgery, sometimes larger or thicker than the original scar. To address this, adjunctive treatments such as corticosteroid injections or silicone gel are usually recommended following surgery to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Benefits of Keloid Removal Surgery
- Immediate removal of large or bothersome keloid scars
- Option for cases where conservative treatments have failed
- Can improve comfort and mobility if the keloid is restricting movement
Who Is Suitable for Keloid Removal Surgery?
Surgery is generally reserved for patients with very large, symptomatic, or treatment-resistant keloids. Careful assessment and planning are essential, as patients with a history of aggressive keloid formation may not be ideal candidates for excision alone.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Possible side effects of surgery include pain, swelling, bruising, infection, and delayed healing. Most importantly, there is a significant risk of keloid recurrence at the incision site. Combining surgery with other therapies can help reduce this risk and improve overall outcomes.
What Results Can I Expect from Keloid Scar Removal?
Every patient’s experience with keloid scar removal is unique, and results may vary depending on the type, size, and location of the keloid as well as the treatment method used. Setting realistic expectations is important to ensure satisfaction and a positive treatment journey.
Visible Reduction in Size and Thickness
Most patients will notice a significant reduction in the height and firmness of their keloid scar following treatment. With keloid injections, many scars can shrink by 50% to 90% after a series of sessions. Laser treatments further enhance skin texture and help soften persistent or raised scars.
Improved Texture and Colour
Treatments such as silicone gel and laser therapy can gradually flatten keloid scars and make them less noticeable. Over time, the scar may also fade in colour, blending in better with the surrounding skin.
Relief from Symptoms
In addition to cosmetic improvement, many patients experience relief from symptoms such as itching, tenderness, or discomfort that keloids can sometimes cause.
Timeline for Results
The speed of improvement varies based on the chosen treatment.
- Keloid injections typically show noticeable effects after the first session, with further improvement over several months as maintenance treatments are performed.
- Silicone gel and laser therapy require consistent application or multiple sessions over several months for optimal results.
- Surgical excision provides immediate removal but must be combined with other therapies to prevent recurrence.
Can Keloids Be Completely Removed?
While it is often possible to achieve dramatic flattening and softening of the scar, complete and permanent removal is challenging due to the risk of recurrence. The main aim is to minimise the keloid’s size, improve skin appearance, and provide long-term symptom relief. Following aftercare instructions and attending follow-up visits are essential for maintaining the results.
For patients interested in seeing examples of outcomes, before-and-after photos can be shared during a consultation to provide a realistic idea of the expected improvements based on similar cases.
How Dr Edwin Approaches Keloid Scar Treatment
At Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic, each keloid scar treatment plan is personalised to the individual needs of every patient. Dr Edwin’s approach is guided by the latest medical research, clinical experience, and a strong focus on patient safety and comfort.
Comprehensive Assessment:
Every treatment journey begins with a thorough consultation and assessment. Dr Edwin carefully examines the characteristics of the keloid scar—including size, thickness, location, and how it has responded to any previous treatments. He also takes into account the patient’s skin type, medical history, and personal preferences.
Prioritising Non-Surgical Methods:
In most cases, Dr Edwin recommends starting with non-surgical treatments such as keloid injections or silicone scar gel, as these options have lower risks and proven effectiveness. Laser therapy may be suggested for thick or resistant keloids, especially when additional flattening or improvement in skin texture is needed.
Minimising Recurrence Risk:
When surgery is considered, it is always paired with adjunctive therapies—such as post-operative corticosteroid injections or the use of silicone gel—to minimise the chances of keloid recurrence.
Patient Education and Support:
Dr Edwin believes in empowering patients with clear, honest information about the available options, expected results, and any potential risks. Throughout the treatment process, patients receive detailed aftercare instructions and ongoing support to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Commitment to Long-Term Results:
The goal is to not only improve the appearance and comfort of keloid scars but also to ensure long-term results with minimal recurrence. Each plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed, based on the patient’s progress.
If you are concerned about a keloid scar or seeking expert guidance on the best removal options, Dr Edwin is dedicated to providing personalised, evidence-based care in a supportive environment.
Risks and Side Effects of Keloid Scar Treatments
Keloid scar removal treatments are generally safe when performed by an experienced medical professional. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of before starting treatment. Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations and support informed decision-making.
Keloid Injections
Most patients tolerate keloid injections well, with only mild and temporary side effects. Common local reactions include:
- Swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site
- Mild discomfort or tenderness for a few days
Less commonly, repeated corticosteroid injections can cause:
- Skin thinning or atrophy
- Hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin)
- Formation of small blood vessels (telangiectasia)
Silicone Scar Gel
Silicone gel is very safe for long-term use and side effects are rare. Occasionally, patients may notice:
- Mild redness or irritation at the application site
If any discomfort or allergic reaction develops, it is advisable to stop using the product and consult your doctor.
Laser Keloid Removal
Laser treatments are safe when performed with proper technique and patient selection. Possible side effects include:
- Temporary redness, swelling, or a sunburn-like sensation
- Mild discomfort during or after the procedure
- Rarely, pigment changes (lightening or darkening of the skin), infection, or delayed healing
Keloid Removal Surgery
Surgical excision carries higher risks than other options, especially regarding recurrence. Potential side effects include:
- Pain, swelling, or bruising after the procedure
- Risk of infection or delayed wound healing
- High chance of new keloid formation at the surgical site
- Possible changes in skin texture or colour
General Considerations
It is important to discuss your medical history, previous scar treatments, and any skin sensitivities with your doctor before starting keloid scar treatment. Following post-treatment instructions and attending scheduled follow-ups will help minimise complications and support optimal healing.
If you have concerns about any risks or side effects, do not hesitate to raise them during your consultation—Dr Edwin is committed to ensuring your comfort, safety, and satisfaction at every stage of your treatment journey.
Keloid Scar Prevention Tips After Treatment
Preventing the recurrence of keloid scars is an important part of long-term management. Even after successful removal or flattening of a keloid, ongoing care is essential to reduce the risk of new scar formation. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain your results and support healthy skin healing:
Follow Your Doctor’s Aftercare Instructions
Carefully adhere to all post-treatment instructions provided by your doctor. This may include wound care routines, medication schedules, and guidelines for physical activity or sun exposure.
Use Silicone Scar Gel or Dressings as Advised
Applying silicone-based products consistently helps keep the scar site hydrated and protected, which can significantly lower the risk of recurrence. Use gels, sheets, or dressings exactly as recommended by your doctor.
Protect the Area from Trauma or Irritation
Avoid unnecessary friction, pressure, or stretching over the treated area. Protect the skin from accidental bumps or injury, especially during the healing phase.
Limit Sun Exposure
Excessive sun exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Use sunscreen or cover the scar area when outdoors, particularly in the first few months after treatment.
Avoid Unnecessary Skin Procedures or Piercings
If you are prone to keloid formation, avoid elective skin procedures, tattoos, or piercings, especially on areas previously affected by keloids.
Monitor for Early Signs of Recurrence
If you notice any thickening, redness, or raised tissue developing at the treatment site, consult your doctor early. Prompt intervention can help prevent a full keloid from forming again.
Maintain Regular Follow-Up Appointments
Attend scheduled follow-up visits so your doctor can monitor healing, assess your progress, and provide additional care if needed.
By taking these preventive steps and staying proactive about your skin health, you can greatly improve the chances of long-term success after keloid scar removal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Keloid Scar Removal in Singapore
How Do I Find the Best Keloid Scar Treatment in Singapore
Searching for the best keloid scar treatment in Singapore can feel overwhelming, especially with so many clinics and options available. Here are key factors to help you make an informed decision and achieve safe, effective results:
Choose a Doctor-Led Clinic with Scar Treatment Expertise
The best keloid scar treatments are offered by clinics led by experienced medical doctors who specialise in managing scars and skin healing. Look for practitioners with a track record in aesthetic and dermatological procedures.
Comprehensive Range of Evidence-Based Treatments
A top clinic should offer various proven treatment options for keloid scars—such as corticosteroid injections, silicone scar gel, laser therapy, and, when appropriate, surgical removal. This allows for a tailored approach based on your scar type and individual needs.
Personalised Consultation and Assessment
Every scar is unique. The best keloid scar treatment begins with a thorough assessment of your scar’s characteristics, your skin type, medical history, and previous treatments. Personalised plans ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Clear Communication and Patient Education
Choose a clinic that values patient education. The right provider will explain the pros and cons of each treatment, set realistic expectations, and address any concerns you may have about outcomes and side effects.
Proven Results and Positive Patient Experiences
Patient testimonials, before-and-after photos, and independent reviews can provide reassurance about the clinic’s expertise in keloid scar management.
Ongoing Aftercare and Support
Effective aftercare is crucial in maximising your results and preventing keloid recurrence. The best clinics provide comprehensive follow-up care and ongoing support to guide you through your healing process.
By considering these factors and seeking care from a reputable, doctor-led clinic, you can be confident in finding the best keloid scar treatment Singapore has to offer—tailored to your unique needs and goals.
