What are Keloids?
Anytime your skin has an injury the production of collagen is increased to form a scar which protects the wound and allows your body to heal. This scar tissue is typically only raised for a short period of time, however, keloids occur when scars continue to grow and result in permanent raised fibrous tissue surrounding a wound. Keloids are raised, thick scars that grow outside the boundary of the original scar and often itch and can be painful. Roughly 10-15% of wounds are affected by the development of keloids. Although keloids can happen to anyone, people with darker pigmentation or of African, Asian or Hispanic ethnicity are more likely to suffer from keloids when injured or as a consequence of surgery. Traditionally, treating keloids presented cosmetic surgeons with challenges, as tissue formations were inclined to grow back even larger, however, with precision surgery and new technology we now have a greater than 90% success rate in the treatment of keloids.
Newer, advanced treatments, such as superficial radiation therapy (SRT) using the SRT-100+™ system, produce better outcomes for patients. However, they are only available from expert plastic surgeons. As a result of limited access to effective treatment, patients are often compelled to travel in order to undergo treatments for keloids.
Treatment Options for Keloids
Historically, plastic surgeons have used steroid injections, steroid-impregnated tape, silicone gel and freezing to treat keloids. These treatments are often unsuccessful; however, surgical excision of the keloid followed by targeted superficial radiotherapy is now a proven option for patients. Dr. Kenrick Spence and Dr. Fernando Ovalle are experts in excising and reconstructing keloids and offer superficial radiotherapy to ensure the highest success rate possible. They offer a virtual consultation and serve patients from all over the world at the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center.
The new SRT 100+ TM in combination with our doctors’ skills and precision surgery is an excellent treatment option for many types of keloids. SRT is safe and effective and works by blocking the production of cells which lay down the thick scar of the keloid. When SRT 100+ TM is combined with surgery the treatment success rate is greater than 90%. Moreover, our surgeons use tension free closure which is a key factor contributing to achieving the best aesthetic outcome and minimizing keloid reocurrence after the treatment.
Determining the best treatment plan for keloid removal requires an individualized approach to treatment. As patients are likely to travel considerable distances for successful treatment, Dr. Spence and his team take great strides to ensure that recommended treatments are both viable and suited to the patient’s needs.
We recommend that patients take full advantage of the virtual consult with one of our keloid treatment experts. During this consultation you will have a chance to discuss treatment options and address any concerns you may have about treatment. At International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center, we provide our patients with access to top level care and the most up to date and innovative treatments available.
Keloid Causes
Although, research into the causes of keloids continues, we know that they can arise from acne, an insect bite, surgery or trauma including piercings, cuts, and/or burns. Genetics may account for a large number of cases, whereas mechanisms that affect the production of collagen in individual patients may be at the root of the problem. Regardless of the cause, treatments that stimulate further collagen production have been shown to be ineffective and are often detrimental when treating or removing keloids.
Due to unknown variables involved in determining the cause of keloids in individuals, our doctors provide treatment recommendations based on your specific case. Medical history, skin type, age and susceptibility to keloid scarring are valuable pieces information and will play a role in determining the most effective treatment plan for you.
Keloid Consultation with Dr. Kenrick Spence and Dr. Fernando Ovalle
Your virtual consultation with Dr. Kenrick Spence or Dr. Fernando Ovalle provides the opportunity to discuss your expectations and how scarring impacts your day-to-day life. Dr. Spence and his team are uniquely qualified to provide detailed, yet easy-to-understand answers to any questions you may have related to treatment at the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center.
If you would like to know more about our keloid treatment options, contact the Orlando experts at our International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center. We look forward to helping you regain confidence through the effective removal of keloid scar tissue.