A keloid is a raised scar that grows beyond the boundaries of the original wound or injury.
Keloids may develop after surgery, injury, piercing, acne or other skin trauma. Some are primarily an appearance concern, while others can become itchy, painful, tender or restrictive depending on their size and location.
For patients considering treatment, one of the most important things to understand is that keloids behave differently from ordinary scars.
Treatment therefore requires careful assessment rather than simply removing the raised scar.
At our Newmarket clinic, keloid scars are assessed by Dr. Victoria Hayward, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Southlake Regional Health Centre and a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in scar management. Keloid scar treatment is one of several minor procedures offered at our clinic. PSSC also sees patients from surrounding communities and the broader region.
How is a keloid different from a regular scar?
Normal scars generally remain within the boundaries of the original injury.
A keloid extends beyond the original wound and can continue growing over time.
Keloids can also recur after treatment, which is one reason management may require a different approach from the treatment of an ordinary scar.
Why people seek keloid treatment
Some keloids are uncomfortable or painful.
Others itch, become irritated by clothing or jewelry, or restrict movement depending on where they develop.
Visible keloids can also be a significant cosmetic concern.
Treatment decisions depend on factors such as:
- size
- location
- symptoms
- how long the keloid has been present
- whether it has been treated before
- whether it has returned after previous treatment
Why recurrence matters
Keloids have a tendency to recur.
Surgical removal alone does not guarantee that a keloid will not come back.
This is why Dr. Hayward will assess the scar, its history and any previous treatments before recommending an approach.
Patients should understand the recurrence risk before proceeding with treatment.
What happens during the consultation?
Dr. Hayward will examine the scar and review:
- when it developed
- what caused the original wound
- whether the scar is changing
- whether it is painful or itchy
- whether it has been treated previously
- whether it returned after prior treatment
She will then discuss what treatment approach is appropriate for the individual scar.
Scar-management planning
Scar management is particularly important in patients who have already shown a tendency to form keloids.
Dr. Hayward has extensive training and experience in scar management.
Our Advanced Medical Aesthetician is also available to discuss scar-management strategies and topical products where appropriate.
The purpose is not to promise that recurrence can be prevented, but to create a thoughtful plan based on the individual patient and scar.
Are keloids covered by OHIP?
Diagnosed keloid scars may qualify for OHIP-covered treatment.
Dr. Hayward will assess the scar and determine whether it meets the appropriate criteria.
Can a recurrent keloid still be assessed?
Yes.
A keloid that has returned after previous treatment can still be assessed.
Previous treatment history is important because it may influence future management.
Patients should bring or upload any relevant records where available.
What happens after treatment?
Aftercare depends on the treatment performed.
Patients receive specific wound-care instructions and, where applicable, written aftercare instructions by email.
Scar-management recommendations may continue after the initial treatment.