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 Tang Da Wei
General Surgery
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The difference between hypertrophic scars and keloids

In a strict sense, hypertrophic scars and keloids are similar in their pathogenesis. For hypertrophic scars, the typical presentation is localized overgrowth at the scar site, which means that there is an overgrowth during the wound healing process, resulting in a relatively large and numerous scar. Keloids represent a more severe condition where there is a localized raised scar on the wound, which can be significantly large, sometimes resembling a bug on the surface of the scar. They are more likely to occur in areas like the neck, behind the ears, and under the earlobes. For the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids, if the patient has a predisposition to scarring, considerations include early intervention during wound suturing and healing, such as injection of medications or radiation therapy.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What to do if hypertrophic scars itch?

Itchy symptoms appearing in hypertrophic scars are a type of reaction of the scar, indicating that such a reaction occurs in the body during the tissue repair process following tissue damage. It is a natural process of the human body. Typically, this itchy symptom does not require special treatment. However, if the symptoms are significant, appropriate use of antipruritic medication can help relieve and improve the condition. Alternatively, gently washing the scar area with saline can effectively help alleviate the itchiness. Additionally, the occurrence of excessive hypertrophic manifestations in this process is also normal, as the entire process requires a period of repair, so such manifestations are acceptable. Most importantly, it is crucial to avoid infections in hypertrophic scars, as such conditions can also cause itching. When this problem arises, specific anti-inflammatory treatment is necessary.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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How to repair hypertrophic scars?

In cases of trauma or injury, it is very easy to develop hypertrophic scars. Generally, the size and depth of the wound are related factors. Scars often present with symptoms like redness, itching, and raised hard areas. There are mainly two approaches to treat this type of scar. The first method involves improvement through medications, using topical drugs or local injections to help eliminate hypertrophic scars. The second method involves surgical approaches, such as laser surgery, which is a common method of repair. Generally, local burning from the procedure can achieve certain effects. Of course, after using laser surgery, a specific recovery period is required. During this period, it is necessary to avoid infections to aid in the repair of hypertrophic scars.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What should I do if I have pain from hypertrophic scars?

Once an injury occurs, it is very likely to develop hypertrophic scars, and the appearance of such scars is related to the individual's constitution, often accompanied by symptoms such as pain. When this condition occurs, specific treatments are definitely needed for improvement, typically using laser surgery as the main treatment, or it can be removed at once through surgical operation, which helps improve the condition. Of course, hypertrophic scars can also be improved through some physical therapy methods, such as by adjusting in different degrees, like acupuncture, which can fade the scars by improving local blood circulation. However, physical therapy is just one aspect; consistent improvement in lifestyle habits to avoid recurrent stimulation of hypertrophic scars is also crucial for recovery.

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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.