Private Keloid Treatment & Scar Removal on Harley Street, London

A keloid is a type of raised scar that develops where the skin has healed after an injury. Unlike regular scars, keloids grow beyond the boundary of the original wound and can become much larger than the wound that caused them. Keloids are typically firm, rubbery, and can be pink, red, or darker than the surrounding skin. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and cheeks.

There are various treatments available for keloids and hypertrophic scars, though treatment can be challenging, especially for keloids. Common treatments include:

1. Corticosteroid Injections:
   • How it works: Steroid injections can help flatten and reduce the size of the scar by decreasing inflammation and collagen production.
   • Suitable for: Both keloids and hypertrophic scars.
   • Pros: Effective for many patients, minimal downtime.
   • Cons: May require multiple sessions, not always a permanent solution.
2. Surgery:
   • How it works: The scar tissue is surgically removed.
   • Suitable for: Large or problematic scars.
   • Pros: Immediate removal of scar tissue.
   • Cons: Keloids may recur, often requiring additional treatment.
3. Pressure Therapy:
   • How it works: Pressure garments are worn over the scar to flatten it.
   • Suitable for: Hypertrophic scars, particularly after burns.
   • Pros: Non-invasive, can be effective if used consistently.
   • Cons: Requires long-term use, can be uncomfortable.
4. Silicone Sheets or Gels:
   • How it works: Silicone sheets or gels are applied to the scar to reduce its size and flatten it over time.
   • Suitable for: Both keloids and hypertrophic scars.
   • Pros: Easy to use, widely available, non-invasive.
   • Cons: Results can be slow and may vary.
5. Cryotherapy:
   • How it works: The scar tissue is frozen using liquid nitrogen, causing it to shrink.
   • Suitable for: Smaller keloids and hypertrophic scars.
   • Pros: Quick procedure, effective for some patients.
   • Cons: Can cause pigmentation changes, particularly in darker skin.

Keloid treatment is for patients who require scar removal for medical reasons such as pain or itching or desire cosmetic removal to enhance their appearance and reinforce confidence. 

At London Skin Clinic, we removed or treat keloids for the following reasons:

• Aesthetic concerns: People may feel self-conscious or unhappy with the appearance of a keloid, especially if it’s large or located on a visible part of the body, such as the face, ears, or chest. Cosmetic treatment improves the skin’s appearance.
• Pain or discomfort: Keloids can cause itching, tenderness, or even pain, particularly when they rub against clothing or are in areas of frequent movement. Our keloid treatments can help alleviate discomfort.
• Restriction of movement: In some cases, large keloids can restrict the movement of the skin or underlying tissue, particularly if the keloid is over a joint or area that needs flexibility. Our modern scar removal methods aim to improve your mobility and eliminate any pain. 
• Prevention of further growth: In some cases, a keloid may continue to grow, and people might want to remove it before it becomes larger and potentially more troublesome.

The exact cause of keloid formation isn’t fully understood, but contributing factors include:

• Genetics: Keloids tend to run in families and are more common in people with darker skin tones.
• Skin trauma: Even small injuries like insect bites, acne spots, or piercings can lead to keloid formation in at-risk individuals.
• Overproduction of collagen: In keloids, the body produces excessive collagen during wound healing, leading to a raised, fibrous scar.
• Infection or Prolonged Healing: Wounds that become infected or take a long time to heal are more likely to develop into hypertrophic scars or keloids.

The cost of keloid scar  in the UK can vary depending on the clinic and the specific treatment method used. On average, you can expect the following costs:

Pricing Page

You should see a doctor if:

• The scar becomes painful, itchy, or shows signs of infection.
• The scar is growing rapidly or changing in color or texture.
• You are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the scar.
• The scar is interfering with movement or causing discomfort.

NHS Options

Keloids and hypertrophic scars are not dangerous, but they can cause discomfort, itching, or pain. They can also be cosmetically concerning, particularly if they occur on visible areas of the body. In some cases, large keloids can restrict movement, especially if they form over a joint.

The exact cause of keloids and hypertrophic scars is not fully understood, but several factors contribute:

• Genetics: There is a strong genetic component, particularly for keloids. They are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
• Skin Trauma: Both keloids and hypertrophic scars form in response to skin injuries, including cuts, burns, surgical incisions, piercings, tattoos, and acne.
• Excessive Scar Tissue Formation: The body produces too much collagen during the healing process, resulting in excessive scar tissue.
• Infection or Prolonged Healing: Wounds that become infected or take a long time to heal are more likely to develop into hypertrophic scars or keloids.

A hypertrophic scar is also a raised scar, but unlike keloids, hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the original wound. These scars are usually red or pink and may be slightly raised, firm, and thick. Hypertrophic scars can develop after surgery, injury, or burns, and they are more common on areas of the body that are under high tension, such as the shoulders, chest, and back.