Hypertrophic Scar vs. Keloid Scar - What’s the Difference?
Do you have a raised, discoloured scar that isn’t going away any time soon? If this is the case, you may have a keloid or a hypertrophic scar. Both of these scars have a red, dark, and raised appearance over the skin and can feel lumpy at times. Additionally, keloids and hypertrophic scars form as a result of excessive collagen production during the wound-healing process (so-called + scars).
While these two types of scars have some similarities, they also have some differences. Continue reading to have an insight on the subject – hypertrophic scar vs keloid scar as well as the most effective treatment for both! Our scar expert, Prof Dr Robert Hierner, is a highly experienced surgeon who many people look up to when it comes to scar removal in Dubai.
What are Keloid Scars?
These are fibrous tissue overgrowths that form spontaneously on a healed wound and are firm, smooth, and dense. Keloid scars spread out from the original site. They do not go away on their own and most reappear even after excision. These scars, which can form soon or long after a wound, can be very uncomfortable and itchy, extending beyond the boundaries of the healed wound.
People looking for keloid scar treatment in Dubai must remember that genetics play an important role in the same. One-third of people who have keloids have a first-degree relative who has keloids. Also, keloids are more prevalent in people with darker skin.
What are Hypertrophic Scars?
Hypertrophic scars are formed as a result of any abnormality during the healing process, which is especially common when the deep dermis is affected by burns. A hypertrophic scar is caused by tension on a healing wound. A thick layer of skin develops. Approximately 6-8 weeks after the initial injury, the equilibrium stage is reached in a typical wound due to anabolic and catabolic processes.
Also Read : What you should know about hypertrophic scars
Did you know?
In a hypertrophic scar, the injured skin’s strength is reduced to 30-40% of that of healthy skin.
Talking about the differences between hypertrophic and keloid scars, we hereby list down some of the major differentiating points:
Hypertrophic Scar vs Keloid Scar
Basis
Hypertrophic Scar
Keloid Scar
Size | It remains in the vicinity of the initial wound. | It spreads past the initial wound. |
Onset | It appears a month or two after the initial wound and continues to grow for several months.
| It starts a few months or years after the wound and grows over time. |
End-Result | It contracts in size after a year.
| It does not contract in size. |
Colour | It could be a lighter pink or red.
| It could be a deeper purple-red colour. |
Impact on movements | As scar tissue shortens, it can stiffen joint movement.
| It has no effect on joint movement. |
Commonality | Quite common | Less common |
Sight of incidence | This can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common near wounds that are infected, irritated, or untreated or where a joint moves the skin. | It can appear on specific parts of the body, such as the upper torso, earlobes, and cheeks. |
Height | A hypertrophic scar may or may not be raised on rare occasions. | Keloid scars are always raised above the skin – typically by more than 4mm. |
Appearance | Although both hypertrophic and keloid scars can be raised above the skin, hypertrophic scar appearance varies slightly and may be hard and sturdy to feel. | Keloid scars, on the other hand, frequently appear to have a shiny surface. |
When left untreated | While hypertrophic scars may fade on their own, it is best to treat this type of scar to initiate faster and better recovery. | If keloid scars are not treated, they can thicken and grow indefinitely! Another distinction between a keloid and a hypertrophic scar is that hypertrophic scars do not continue to grow after a certain point. |
Scar Care - A holistic approach by Prof Dr Robert Hierner for scar care in Dubai!
Scar Care, pioneered by a few experts such as Prof Dr Robert, is a unique interdisciplinary treatment that includes dermatology, physiotherapy, and radiotherapy for hypertrophic and keloid treatment in Dubai.
Prof Dr Robert Hierner is a renowned plastic surgeon in Dubai with an outstanding international reputation in scar removal in Dubai. He can effortlessly provide the most modern procedures. Because of his professional skills, extensive knowledge, and many years of experience as an exclusive Plastic surgeon.
Schedule an appointment to have a detailed discussion about your scar condition.