What Are the Treatment Options for Keloid Scars?

Keloid scars are more than a cosmetic concern—they can cause pain, itching, restricted movement, and emotional distress. Unlike regular scars, keloids are raised, thick, and tend to grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound. They are notoriously difficult to treat and often recur without a specialized, multi-faceted approach. At the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center in Orlando, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options to help patients regain comfort and confidence by targeting keloids at their root cause.

Keloids can develop after surgery, piercings, burns, acne, or even minor skin injuries. According to the National Institutes of Health, keloids affect approximately 10% of people worldwide, and they are more common among individuals with darker skin tones, such as those of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent. While no single treatment works for every patient, a personalized plan that includes both procedural and non-invasive therapies offers the best chance of long-term results.

Surgical Excision and Reconstruction

One of the most direct treatment options for keloids is excision, or surgical removal of the scar tissue. However, surgery alone is rarely effective, as keloids often regrow. That’s why we combine excision with reconstruction techniques that reduce tension on the skin and improve healing.

Tension-free closure is critical during reconstruction. Excess skin tension can trigger keloid regrowth, so we use specialized suturing methods and positioning to minimize this risk.

Surgery is often followed by adjunct therapies such as radiation (SRT) or steroid injections to help prevent recurrence.

SRT (Superficial Radiation Therapy)

SRT is a game-changer in the treatment of keloid scars. This non-invasive, low-dose radiation therapy is typically applied after surgical removal to inhibit the activity of fibroblasts—cells responsible for excessive collagen production.

SRT is safe, localized, and completed in short sessions over several days. Studies show recurrence rates as low as 10–15% when SRT is combined with excision, compared to over 50% with surgery alone.

Steroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections, such as triamcinolone, are one of the most commonly used non-surgical treatments for keloids. Steroids reduce inflammation, flatten the scar, and relieve symptoms like itching or burning.

Injections are typically administered every 4–6 weeks and are most effective for smaller keloids or when used in combination.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatments, particularly pulsed dye lasers (PDL), help reduce the redness and thickness of keloids over time. Lasers target the blood vessels within the scar, improving appearance and reducing discomfort.

Laser therapy is often combined with other treatments such as steroids or 5FU for enhanced results. Multiple sessions may be needed to achieve noticeable improvement.

5FU (5-Fluorouracil) Injections

5-Fluorouracil (5FU) is a chemotherapy agent that, when injected directly into a keloid, slows collagen and fibroblast production. It is typically used in combination with steroid injections, and it is especially effective in treating keloids resistant to steroids alone.

Silicone Sheets and Gels

Silicone therapy is a proven, non-invasive method to reduce scar thickness and improve overall appearance. Silicone sheets or gels are applied daily over the keloid for several weeks to a month to help maintain moisture in the scar and reduce itching and discomfort. This treatment works best for newer keloids or for preventing recurrence after surgical treatment.

Simulation and Custom Treatment Plans

Every patient’s skin is different, and that’s why we use simulation technology and diagnostic tools to map the scar’s behavior and design a precise, tailored treatment strategy. At our Orlando clinic, we combine evidence-based therapies with advanced imaging and skin analysis to improve both cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Your Partner in Keloid and Scar Care

At the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center in Orlando, FL, we specialize in treating some of the most complex keloid cases. Our multidisciplinary approach—combining surgical skill with the latest in dermatological science—has helped patients from all over the country achieve lasting relief. Whether your scar is painful, growing, or simply affecting your confidence, we’re here to provide real solutions, not temporary fixes.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward smoother, healthier skin.