Some scars from surgery or trauma do not heal normally due to genetics, infection or sub-optimal stitching. These scars can be thick, wide, red and painful. This is called keloid or hypertrophic scarring. Proper removal of these abnormal scars necessitates complete excision of the scar and careful stitching, along with the proper medications. The most common areas for keloid are ears, chest, abdomen and back.

• Transformation of an obvious, painful scar into a thin line
• Decreased itchiness of scar long term

1 to 3 hours, depending on the scar

Local or twilight

Scars on the ear heal very well and are hard to detect after a few months. Scars on the trunk typically heal to become a thin white line, and blend in very well with surrounding skin.

No. The scar is hidden in the shadow under the breast and very difficult to see, especially when fully healed.

In medical research, keloids come back 50-80% of the time. In my patients, less than 1% have had a keloid return. Good candidates must be committed to proper scar care. Ear keloids heal better, while keloids on the chest and back recur more often. The best way to understand the possibilities is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yao so that she can assess your anatomy.