What should I do about hypertrophic scars?

Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Hypertrophic scar keloids are actually quite common in everyday life. Generally, this type of scarring can be divided into three stages: the proliferative phase, the stable phase, and the recovery phase. If care is not taken, the likelihood of developing such keloids increases. Moreover, the occurrence of hypertrophic scar keloids also relates to an individual's constitution. For instance, those with a scar-prone constitution are more likely to encounter this issue. When such issues arise, it is advisable to use some reparative ointments appropriately to help improve the condition. Additionally, combining massage techniques or localized stimulation methods can also assist in improvement, enabling better recovery. Over time, the scars should gradually fade. Of course, in such cases, methods like laser surgery or dermabrasion can also be used to help eliminate these scar-like keloids, potentially speeding up the recovery. (Please follow a doctor’s guidance for specific medication usage and avoid self-medicating.)

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What will happen if hypertrophic scars are not treated?

Hypertrophic scars are actually related to individual constitution. This condition mainly occurs due to scarring following an injury, which leads to excessive growth of scar tissue. As long as there are no inflammatory changes, generally, hypertrophic scars do not cause any problems. However, some hypertrophic scars may develop into malignant lesions, particularly in areas that are easily stimulated, such as the soles of the feet or the armpits. If a hypertrophic scar persists and the area is continually stimulated, it may lead to changes in the scar, which, in severe cases, could even become malignant. In such situations, it is crucial to manage the condition promptly based on the specific circumstances. Safe treatment measures usually involve techniques such as laser surgery.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I do about auricular keloids?

Auricular keloids are a relatively common clinical condition, which may be related to an individual's scar constitution. Firstly, it is necessary to examine the size of the keloid. If the keloid is small, without obvious enlarging, redness, pain, infection, or inflammation, this situation generally can be considered for observation followed by regular ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist follow-ups to check for any rapid growth. However, if the keloid is large and progressively growing, surgical removal should be considered. After the surgery, local superficial radiation therapy can be considered to help prevent postoperative recurrence.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What should not be eaten with hypertrophic scars?

Hypertrophic scars, in themselves, result from constitutional issues, meaning they are tied to an individual's physical condition and have certain hereditary elements. This condition significantly affects appearance, and certain dietary items can further irritate hypertrophic scars. Thus, it is recommended to avoid certain stimulating foods such as bamboo shoots, beef, crucian carp, and seafood, as these can impede the healing of hypertrophic scars. Moreover, if symptoms are pronounced, or if irritation is prominent, it is also advisable to avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking. Such irritants can notably aggravate the skin, potentially leading to localized scar sensitivity.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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Can hypertrophic scars be effectively treated?

Hypertrophic scars are related to constitutional issues, generally directly associated with congenital genetic factors. Thus, while it is possible to improve the condition of hypertrophic scars, it is impossible to completely remove them, as altering such constitutional issues entirely is very challenging. When dealing with hypertrophic scars, one can choose various methods to alleviate the condition, such as improving local tissue vitality through massage, which can promote skin regeneration and thus mitigate the effects of hypertrophic scars. Additionally, treatments for hypertrophic scars can include laser surgery or the use of medications that invigorate blood circulation and disperse blood stasis. Importantly, preventing wounds and thus avoiding scar formation is crucial for optimal prevention. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate).

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Written by Tang Da Wei
General Surgery
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How to eliminate hypertrophic scars?

For the elimination of hypertrophic scars, one can apply anti-scarring ointment to the surface early after surgery. If the patient indeed has a scarring constitution, at the end of the surgery, it is advisable to inject medications into the subcutaneous area or within the wound tissue to prevent excessive or abnormal scar proliferation. If necessary, radiotherapy can be applied; under the effect of X-rays, it can effectively prevent the abnormal proliferation of scar tissue and the abnormal and excessive growth of fibroblasts. If there is already hypertrophic scarring, one might consider excising the hypertrophied scar tissue and re-suturing the wound.