New Treatments for Keloids: Costs, Duration, and Insurance Coverage

Are there any new or effective treatments for keloids?

Regarding the treatment process and the required duration? Is there health insurance coverage? If not, approximately how much would it cost? Thank you!

Yi Bo Yun Tian, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/24

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

The treatment of keloids is highly dependent on the location, the patient's age, and the cause of the lesions.
If the keloids are causing redness, swelling, and pain, local injections of corticosteroids can be administered along with compression therapy, typically every 3 to 4 weeks.
If the response is inadequate, additional treatments such as localized radiation therapy or surgical intervention may be considered.
Whether these treatments are covered by health insurance depends on the specific circumstances; however, if they are not covered, the cost is generally not very high, with each treatment session costing around a few hundred dollars.

Reply Date: 2004/03/24

More Info

Keloids are a type of raised scar that occurs when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. They can be itchy, painful, and cosmetically concerning for many individuals. The treatment of keloids can be challenging, and various methods have been employed to manage them, including surgical excision, corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, and silicone gel sheets.

New Treatments for Keloids
1. Corticosteroid Injections: This is one of the most common treatments for keloids. Corticosteroids can help flatten the keloid and reduce itching. The treatment usually requires multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart. The cost can vary, but each injection may range from $50 to $300, depending on the provider and location.

2. Surgical Excision: This involves surgically removing the keloid. However, there is a risk of the keloid returning, sometimes even larger than before. The cost of surgical excision can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the facility.

3. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can help reduce the size and color of keloids. This method is often used in conjunction with other treatments. The costs for laser therapy can range from $200 to $1,500 per session, and multiple sessions are typically required.

4. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the keloid with liquid nitrogen. It can be effective, especially for smaller keloids. The cost is generally around $100 to $300 per session.

5. Silicone Gel Sheets: These are applied directly to the keloid and can help flatten it over time. They are relatively inexpensive, costing about $20 to $50 for a pack that lasts several weeks.

6. Interferon Therapy: This is a newer treatment option that involves injecting interferon into the keloid. It has shown promise in reducing keloid size, but it is not widely available and can be costly.

Duration of Treatment
The duration of treatment for keloids varies significantly based on the method used and the individual’s response to treatment. For corticosteroid injections, patients may see results within a few weeks, but full treatment can take several months. Surgical excision may provide immediate results, but follow-up treatments are often necessary to prevent recurrence. Laser therapy typically requires multiple sessions over several months to achieve optimal results.

Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for keloid treatments can vary widely. Many insurance plans may cover surgical excision and corticosteroid injections, especially if the keloid is symptomatic (e.g., causing pain or itching). However, cosmetic procedures, such as laser therapy or silicone gel sheets, may not be covered. It is essential to check with your insurance provider to understand what treatments are covered under your plan.

Estimated Costs
If treatments are not covered by insurance, the total cost can add up quickly. For example, if a patient undergoes surgical excision ($1,500), followed by three sessions of corticosteroid injections ($600 total), and two laser therapy sessions ($2,000 total), the total could reach approximately $4,100.
In conclusion, keloid treatment options are diverse, and the choice of treatment should be tailored to the individual’s specific situation, including the size and location of the keloid, the patient’s medical history, and their personal preferences. Consulting with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who specializes in scar management is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

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