Keloids Treatment in Singapore
Dr Wong Su-Ni
Senior Consultant Dermatologist in Singapore
MBBS (Melbourne), MMed (Internal Med), MRCP (UK)FAMS (Dermatology), FRCP (London), GDA (Singapore)
Keloids can develop following acne, piercings, surgery and other forms of skin injury, sometimes becoming increasingly noticeable or growing larger over time. Depending on their size and location, these skin markings may affect appearance, cause discomfort and impact self-confidence, particularly when they occur on highly visible areas of the body.
Although keloids do not usually resolve without treatment, various treatment options are available to improve their appearance and help patients achieve flatter, less noticeable skin. Early assessment by a dermatologist can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your condition.
What Are Keloids?
A keloid is a raised overgrowth of scar tissue that occurs at the site of a skin injury. They are most commonly found on the chest, shoulders, jawline, back and earlobes. In addition to their appearance, some keloids may cause symptoms such as itching, tenderness or discomfort.
Keloid scars often occur where trauma, surgery, blisters, injections, acne or body piercing have injured the skin.
It usually has a smooth top and a pink, red or red-brown colour. Keloids are irregularly shaped and tend to enlarge progressively. They typically appear as smooth, firm growths with a pink, red, red-brown or darker appearance depending on skin tone. They are often irregularly shaped and may vary considerably in size. Common areas affected include the chest, shoulders, jawline, back and earlobes.
Contact us for a detailed evaluation to find out how we can help address keloids.
What Causes Keloid Scars?
Keloid scars form when the skin's healing process becomes overactive, causing excess scar tissue to build up after an injury. Several factors may contribute to this, including:
- Overactive collagen response: The body produces too much collagen while repairing the skin, causing the scar to become raised and enlarged.
- Skin tension: Keloids are more likely to develop in areas where the skin is stretched or under repeated movement, such as the chest, shoulders and jawline.
- Genetics: Some individuals are more prone to keloid formation due to family history or inherited skin-healing patterns.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations may influence how the skin repairs itself, which may partly explain why keloids are more common during certain life stages.
- Inflammation: Ongoing irritation, acne inflammation or repeated trauma to the skin can increase the likelihood of abnormal scar formation.
How Do Dermatologists Carry Out Keloid Scar Removal in Singapore?
Steroid Injections
Surgical Excision
Combination Therapy
Early treatment may help prevent keloids from becoming larger and more noticeable. Speak with Dr SN Wong to learn about your treatment options.
What Results Can You Expect from Keloid Treatment?
The results of keloid treatment depend on the method used, as well as the size and characteristics of the scar.
Steroid injections often require multiple treatment sessions over several weeks or months before noticeable flattening occurs.
In contrast, surgical excision is meant to get rid of the keloid immediately, although the treated area will still require time to heal and additional treatments may be recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Recovery is generally well-tolerated, with most patients able to return to their usual activities shortly after treatment. Your dermatologist will advise you on the expected recovery timeline and follow-up care based on the treatment performed.
Early Management of Keloid Scars with Dr Wong Su-Ni
Keloids are generally harmless, but they do not usually improve on their own and may continue to enlarge over time. As they become more prominent, they may become increasingly noticeable and affect self-confidence, particularly when located on visible areas such as the face, jawline, chest or earlobes.
Some keloids may also cause symptoms such as itching, tenderness or discomfort. In larger keloids, ongoing growth may make treatment more challenging and potentially require a more extensive treatment approach. Seeking medical advice early can help determine the most appropriate management options before the keloid progresses further.
At Dr SN Wong Skin, Hair, Nails & Laser Specialist Clinic, patients receive personalised care guided by Dr Wong Su-Ni, an MOH-accredited senior consultant dermatologist with over 20 years of clinical experience. With expertise in both medical and aesthetic dermatology, Dr Wong carefully evaluates keloid scars and develops an evidence-based treatment plan aimed at improving cosmetic appearance while minimising the risk of recurrence.
If you are concerned about a keloid scar or would like to explore your treatment options, contact us today to arrange a consultation and receive a personalised assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keloid Scars
Most keloid treatments are generally well-tolerated. The level of discomfort varies depending on the treatment performed and the size and location of the keloid. Where appropriate, measures such as local anaesthesia may be used to improve comfort during the procedure.
Keloids have a tendency to recur, even after successful treatment. The likelihood of recurrence varies depending on the individual and the treatment used. For this reason, dermatologists may recommend combining multiple treatments to help reduce the risk of the keloid returning.
Recovery depends on the treatment performed. Patients who undergo steroid injections can usually return to their normal activities immediately. Surgical excision may require a longer healing period, although most patients can resume daily activities shortly after the procedure. Your dermatologist will provide specific aftercare instructions based on your treatment plan.
While keloids cannot always be prevented, early and appropriate wound care may help reduce the risk. Silicone gel sheets or silicone gels may be recommended to support scar management, particularly in individuals prone to keloid formation. Avoid unnecessary trauma to the skin where possible and seek medical advice if a scar becomes raised, thickened or continues to grow beyond the original wound. Early treatment may help limit further progression.
Our Keloid Specialist in Singapore
Senior Consultant Dermatologist in Singapore
Dr Wong Su-Ni is an MOH-accredited dermatologist with over 20 years of clinical experience diagnosing and treating keloids and other complex skin conditions. She understands that keloid scars can continue to enlarge over time, causing discomfort and affecting confidence, and therefore she focuses on early intervention and personalised treatment strategies to help patients achieve better long-term outcomes.
Dr Wong adopts a personalised approach to help reduce symptoms and minimise the risk of keloids recurring. Treatment recommendations are tailored to each patient's keloid size, location, symptoms and treatment history. Depending on the individual's needs, management may include corticosteroid injections, cryotherapy, laser treatment, surgery or a combination of therapies to help flatten keloids, relieve symptoms and improve their appearance while supporting long-term control.
