Keloids are stubborn, raised scars that form due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. These scars can appear anywhere on the body and often cause discomfort, itching, and self-esteem concerns due to their appearance. When it comes to treating keloids, the time it takes to see results can vary depending on the type of treatment used, the size of the keloid, and individual factors such as skin type and healing capacity. Understanding the expected timeline for results is crucial to managing expectations and achieving the best outcomes. Let's delve into Keloid Treatment in Dubai.
Corticosteroid Injections: Weeks to Months
Corticosteroid injections are one of the most common treatments for keloids. The procedure involves injecting a steroid directly into the scar tissue to help flatten the keloid and reduce inflammation. Multiple injections may be required, depending on the size of the keloid and the desired results.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: You may start noticing a reduction in the size and redness of the keloid within 2 to 4 weeks after the first injection.
- Full Results: Achieving optimal results typically takes several months. For some patients, it may take up to 6 months or more to see the full effect, and multiple sessions are often necessary to maintain progress.
- Frequency of Injections: Depending on the keloid’s response, injections are usually given every 4 to 6 weeks. The full treatment process may last from a few months to a year, depending on the keloid's size and severity.
Silicone Gel Sheets and Silicone Gel: 2 to 3 Months
Silicone gel sheets or gels are non-invasive treatments that can be used to help flatten and soften keloid scars over time. These products are worn directly on the scar and should be used consistently for the best results.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: You may begin to see softening or flattening of the keloid within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use.
- Full Results: It usually takes 2 to 3 months of continuous use to see significant results. The treatment should be worn for a prolonged period, and some individuals may need to continue using silicone sheets for up to 6 months to achieve the desired effect.
- Consistency is Key: Regular use of silicone products is crucial. Inconsistent use can delay the results.
3. Cryotherapy (Freezing Therapy): Weeks to Months
Cryotherapy involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen to reduce its size. This procedure can be effective for smaller keloids and is often combined with other treatments for better results.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: Cryotherapy usually requires a few weeks to begin showing results. You might notice the keloid starting to shrink or soften within 2 to 4 weeks.
- Full Results: Full results may take several months to become visible. Cryotherapy typically requires multiple sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.
- Multiple Sessions: It may take 2 to 3 treatments for smaller keloids and 4 or more treatments for larger or more resistant keloids.
4. Laser Therapy: Weeks to Months
Laser therapy uses focused light to target the blood vessels within the keloid, reducing redness and helping to flatten the scar tissue. This method is less invasive and often used for keloids that are smaller or in areas where surgical removal may be too risky.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: After the first laser treatment, you may notice some reduction in redness or swelling within a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Full Results: Full improvement typically takes about 2 to 3 months. A series of treatments, often spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, is generally needed for the most effective outcome.
- Multiple Sessions Required: Depending on the severity and size of the keloid, you may need 3 to 5 sessions for optimal results.
5. Surgical Removal: Weeks to Months
Surgical removal involves excising the keloid scar and closing the wound with sutures. However, it’s important to note that keloids may reappear after surgery, sometimes even larger than before, which is why additional treatments are often combined with surgery.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Healing: After surgery, the wound will take a few weeks to heal, but the keloid itself might not fully shrink right away.
- Full Results: The results of surgical removal may take 3 to 6 months to become clear, as the scar heals and the body adjusts to the new tissue.
- Risk of Recurrence: Even after surgical removal, the keloid may recur, and additional treatments (such as corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, or silicone sheets) may be necessary to prevent regrowth.
6. Radiation Therapy: Weeks to Months
Radiation therapy is used after surgical removal of the keloid to prevent recurrence. The radiation helps to stop the keloid from returning, reducing the chances of it growing back after surgery.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: Radiation therapy is typically administered soon after surgery, and the results can start to show within a few weeks.
- Full Results: Full results can take 3 to 6 months to become evident, as the body’s healing response is influenced by the radiation. It’s often used to complement surgical excision and prevent regrowth.
- Multiple Treatments: Radiation therapy may require multiple sessions over a period of time, and the skin’s response should be monitored closely.
7. Pressure Therapy: 3 to 12 Months
Pressure therapy is commonly used after surgical procedures or for large keloids. Specialized garments or dressings are applied to the scar to apply consistent pressure, which helps flatten the keloid over time.
Timeframe for Results:
- Initial Improvement: Some flattening and softening of the keloid may be noticeable within the first few weeks of consistent pressure therapy.
- Full Results: Achieving optimal results with pressure therapy can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on the size and severity of the keloid. The garment or dressing should be worn consistently for the best outcome.
- Consistency and Patience: This method requires a long-term commitment, as pressure must be applied for extended periods to see noticeable changes.
Conclusion
The time it takes for keloid treatments to show results varies based on the treatment method, the severity of the keloid, and the individual’s response to the treatment. Non-invasive treatments like silicone gel sheets, corticosteroid injections, and laser therapy tend to show results over the course of weeks to months. For more aggressive treatments like surgical removal and radiation therapy, it can take several months to fully see the effects.
It’s important to note that keloid treatment requires patience and consistency. Results will not appear overnight, and a combination of treatments may be necessary for the best outcome. Consulting with a healthcare provider or dermatologist who specializes in scar management will help you choose the most effective treatment plan based on your individual needs and expectations.