Raised Scars: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Tips

Q: Raised Scars: Causes, Treatment, and Healing Tips

Hello： In response to your question, based on the situation you described, you may have hypertrophic scars. <br>Treatment for hypertrophic scars requires patience. <br>Currently, medical options include injections to flatten the raised scars, topical medications or laser treatmen

The surface of the wound has scabbed over, but it is raised and painful to the touch?

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I fell and scraped my knee, resulting in a wound approximately the size of a coin.
Afterward, it scabbed over, but I accidentally brushed against the edge of a table, causing the scab to come off.
The surface of the wound healed, but the tissue underneath has not fully recovered, and it soon became raised with serous fluid underneath, which is painful when pressed.
I foolishly used a sterilized needle to drain the fluid, similar to how one would treat a blister, and the wound scabbed over again.
However, I accidentally pulled the scab off while putting on and taking off my pants, and the situation repeated itself, so I had to resort to the same method again.
Recently, the second scab formed quickly but fell off again, and now the wound is no longer smooth; it appears somewhat like a keloid, and there is still some pain when pressed.
Doctor, will I be left with this scar in the future? Will the wound continue to heal and become smoother? If it is already a scar, is there any way to treat it?

Wei Zai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/13

Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology

Hello: In response to your question, based on the situation you described, you may have hypertrophic scars.
Treatment for hypertrophic scars requires patience.
Currently, medical options include injections to flatten the raised scars, topical medications or laser treatments to lighten the discoloration, and surgical scar revision to remove the scars.
It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for an in-person evaluation.

Reply Date: 2007/09/13

More Info

Raised scars, also known as hypertrophic scars or keloids, can be a frustrating and concerning issue for many individuals. Understanding the causes, treatment options, and healing tips can help you manage and potentially improve the appearance of these scars.

Causes of Raised Scars
Raised scars typically develop as a result of the body’s natural healing process. When the skin is injured, the body produces collagen to repair the damaged tissue. In some cases, the body produces too much collagen, leading to a raised scar. Factors that can contribute to the formation of raised scars include:
1. Injury Type: Deeper wounds, such as those from surgery or significant trauma, are more likely to result in raised scars.

2. Skin Type: Individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to developing keloids.

3. Genetics: A family history of keloids can increase the likelihood of developing raised scars.

4. Location of the Injury: Certain areas of the body, such as the chest, shoulders, and earlobes, are more susceptible to keloid formation.

Treatment Options
If you are dealing with a raised scar, there are several treatment options available:
1. Silicone Gel Sheets: These can help flatten raised scars over time. They are easy to use and can be worn under clothing.

2. Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and flatten raised scars. This treatment may require multiple sessions.

3. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can help reduce the redness and size of raised scars. Different types of lasers may be used depending on the scar's characteristics.

4. Cryotherapy: Freezing the scar tissue can help reduce its size and improve its appearance.

5. Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal of the scar may be an option, but this can sometimes lead to the formation of a new scar.

6. Pressure Therapy: Applying pressure to the scar can help flatten it over time. This is often used for larger scars.

Healing Tips
To promote healing and minimize the appearance of raised scars, consider the following tips:
1. Keep the Area Moisturized: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the scar hydrated.

2. Avoid Picking at Scabs: As you experienced, picking at scabs can lead to further injury and worsen the scar. Allow scabs to fall off naturally.

3. Sun Protection: Protect the scar from sun exposure, as UV rays can darken scars. Use sunscreen with a high SPF on the area.

4. Gentle Massage: Once the scar has healed, gentle massage can help break down the collagen fibers and improve the scar's appearance.

5. Consult a Dermatologist: If you are concerned about the appearance of your scar, consider consulting a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who specializes in scar treatment.

Conclusion
In your case, it sounds like the raised scar may be a result of the healing process following your injury. While it is possible that the scar may flatten over time, especially with appropriate treatment, it is also possible that it may remain raised. Early intervention is key, so consider seeking professional advice to explore the best treatment options for your specific situation.

Remember, every individual's healing process is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Patience and consistent care are essential in managing raised scars.

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