{"id":80539,"date":"2025-08-24T17:57:32","date_gmt":"2025-08-24T08:57:32","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/keloid\/"},"modified":"2026-07-06T19:30:51","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T10:30:51","slug":"keloid","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/treatment\/keloid\/","title":{"rendered":"Keloid &#038; Hypertrophic Scar Treatment | IC Clinic Ueno"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-sango-light-red-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#ff6b6b;border-width:3px;border-radius:10px;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:20px\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#ff0000\" id=\"i-0\">\ud83d\udca1 What You Will Learn from This Article<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Causes and mechanisms of keloid formation<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Body areas prone to keloids and keloid-prone constitution<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Five treatment options, from insurance-covered to self-pay<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">How to distinguish keloids from hypertrophic scars<\/mark><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udce2 <strong>If left untreated, keloids can restrict joint movement and, in children, may affect normal growth!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-20959078 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/reservation\/ueno\/\" style=\"background-color:#ff6b6b\">\ud83c\udfe5 Book a Consultation Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-1\">\u26a0\ufe0f Please Note: The following conditions are not treated at our clinic.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd25 Burns and burn scars<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\ude79 Self-inflicted lacerations (wrist cutting)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd15 Traumatic injuries and wounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc89 Post-cosmetic surgery conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\ude1f \u201c<mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">What causes scars and keloids?<\/mark>\u201c<br>\ud83d\ude30 \u201c<mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">How are scars, keloids, and hypertrophic scars treated?<\/mark>\u201c<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc46 If you have questions like these, you are not alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">A keloid is a condition in which fibrous tissue that forms during wound healing proliferates and spreads beyond the boundaries of healthy surrounding tissue<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article covers a wide range of information\u2014from answers to the questions above to guidance for those wondering where on the body scars and keloids are most likely to develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2728 If you are troubled by scars or keloids, we hope this article will be a helpful resource.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"link1\">\ud83d\udd0d What Are Keloids? How They Differ from Ordinary Scars and Burns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image4-7.jpg\" alt=\"A body contouring treatment with low risk of rebound\" class=\"wp-image-38108\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A keloid is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">a raised, reddish growth that extends beyond the boundaries of the original wound on the skin<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scars and keloids can develop as a result of burns, physical trauma, or acne. <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Unlike ordinary wounds or burns, however, keloids continue to expand into surrounding skin that was not originally injured<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Important!<\/strong> Scars and keloids can also <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">interfere with daily life by making it difficult to stretch the body or move the joints freely<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udc76 <strong>Especially important for children!<\/strong> The restricted skin flexibility can <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">impair normal growth, making early treatment particularly important<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"link2\">\u2753 Why Do Scars and Keloids Form? Understanding the Causes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/42e38399f837884372eeb6be2a8975e2.png\" alt=\"What is a keloid\" class=\"wp-image-40533\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A key factor in keloid formation is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">\u201cexcessive collagen production.\u201d<\/mark> Collagen is found in <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">the dermis\u2014the thickest layer that makes up the bulk of the skin<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 Collagen is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">essential for wound healing<\/mark>: when a wound occurs, the body produces collagen to repair the damaged tissue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u274c However, <strong>when collagen is produced in excessive amounts for reasons that are not fully understood, it accumulates beyond the original wound site and forms a keloid<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"link3\">\ud83e\uddec Who Is More Prone to Scars and Keloids? Understanding Keloid-Prone Skin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keloid formation is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">significantly influenced by individual constitution<\/mark>. Some people recover from deep wounds without any issues, while <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">others develop keloids from something as minor as acne or an insect bite<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83e\uddec <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Genetics (familial keloids) is cited as one of the factors<\/mark> that may make a person more prone to developing scars and keloids. <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Keloids tend to be more common in people of African descent and less common in those of European descent<\/mark>, with <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">people of Asian descent\u2014including Japanese\u2014falling somewhere in between<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-5\">\ud83d\udccd Where Do Scars and Keloids Develop? Common Sites on the Body<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The table below outlines areas of the body where scars and keloids are commonly found.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"id-a000db7c-2a8f-4cdb-af42-22ecd1e17c11\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Body Area<\/th><th>Characteristics \/ Common Causes<\/th><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udc42 Ears<\/th><td>\ud83d\udc8d <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Inflammation from piercing holes<\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83e\udee6 Chin \/ Jaw<\/th><td>\ud83d\ude16 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Acne<\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83e\udec1 Chest<\/th><td>\ud83d\ude16 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Acne<\/mark><br>\ud83c\udfe5 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Surgery<\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udcaa Armpits \/ Shoulders<\/th><td>\ud83d\udd04 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Areas with a wide range of motion<\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83e\udd30 Lower Abdomen<\/th><td>\ud83d\udc76 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Cesarean section<\/mark><br>\ud83c\udfe5 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Post-surgical scarring<\/mark><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 The likelihood of developing keloids in these areas <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">may vary depending on individual constitution<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#4a90e2;border-width:3px;border-radius:10px;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:20px\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#4a90e2\" id=\"i-6\">\ud83c\udfe5 For Those with Concerning Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udccc <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">A piercing hole or acne scar that is red and raised<\/mark><br>\n\ud83d\udccc <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">A post-surgical scar that has spread beyond the original wound<\/mark><br>\n\ud83d\udccc <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">A red, raised area accompanied by itching or pain<\/mark><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udc49 <strong>If any of these apply to you, we recommend seeking a consultation as soon as possible!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-20959078 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/reservation\/ueno\/\" style=\"background-color:#4a90e2\">\ud83d\udcac Consult a Specialist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-7\">\ud83d\udd0e How Do Keloids Differ from Other Types of Scars? A Guide to Identification<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">three types<\/mark> of scars that are similar in appearance to keloids:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Mature scar (cicatrix)<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Immature scar<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Scar contracture<\/mark><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read on for a description of each type to help determine which may apply to your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-8\">\u2728 Mature Scar (Cicatrix)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A mature scar is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">a fully healed wound that no longer causes pain or itching and is relatively inconspicuous in appearance<\/mark>. Depending on the shape of the original wound, the skin surface may appear uneven or linear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 Mature scars are typically <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">pale or whitish<\/mark> in color, although some may appear <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">brownish<\/mark> due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-9\">\ud83d\udd34 Immature Scar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An immature scar refers to <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">the period of approximately six months to one year after a wound has healed, during which the scar may still appear red or feel firm<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Skin care is important!<\/strong> During this phase, the scar tissue is not yet stable, so it is important to <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">keep the area well moisturized and prevent it from drying out<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2600\ufe0f Additionally, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">sun exposure during this period can lead to pigmentation changes<\/mark>, so applying sunscreen consistently is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-10\">\ud83d\udea8 Scar Contracture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scar contracture is <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">a condition in which healed scar tissue tightens and restricts movement in the affected area<\/mark>. It is particularly common around <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">the joints of the hands and feet, the mouth, and the eyelids<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83c\udfe5 <strong>Surgery may be necessary!<\/strong> <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Surgical intervention may be required if the tightened skin causes pain, or if it significantly interferes with daily activities\u2014such as difficulty bending the elbow or opening the mouth<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-11\">\ud83d\udc8a Treatment Options for Scars and Keloids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/image7-2.jpg\" alt=\"Two effects that can be expected from Diamond Freel\" class=\"wp-image-37959\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following treatment options are available for scars and keloids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83c\udfe5 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Insurance-covered surgery<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u26a1 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Laser treatments<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\ude79 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Taping and topical medications<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udcb0 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Specialized outpatient care: self-pay surgery<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc89 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Specialized outpatient care: injections + V-Beam laser<\/mark><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each option is described below. If you are considering treatment for scars or keloids, please use this as a reference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-12\">\ud83c\udfe5 Treatment Option \u2460 Insurance-Covered Surgery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insurance-covered surgery involves <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">excising the scar or keloid in an elliptical (leaf-shaped) pattern<\/mark>. This procedure is covered by health insurance, with an estimated cost of approximately <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">\u00a510,000\u2013\u00a515,000 (tax included)<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2728 <strong>Advantages of surgery:<\/strong> the raised tissue is removed entirely, leaving only the sutured line. While the sutured area will appear red immediately after the procedure, it typically <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">fades gradually over the course of approximately one year<\/mark> if healing progresses without complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u26a0\ufe0f <strong>Disadvantage:<\/strong> depending on the location and individual constitution, there is a possibility that <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">the excised area may develop into a new scar or keloid<\/mark>. Whether recurrence actually occurs cannot be determined until after the surgery has been performed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 At our clinic, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">we apply protective taping to the wound for several months following surgery to help minimize the risk of recurrence<\/mark> where possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-13\">\u26a1 Treatment Option \u2461 Laser Treatments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As a non-surgical option, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">laser treatment<\/mark> is available for addressing scars and keloids. It is not covered by health insurance, and the cost is approximately <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">\u00a516,500 per session per area (tax included)<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\ude0c For those who feel apprehensive about surgery, starting with \u201c<mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">laser treatment<\/mark>\u201d may be a reasonable first step. Treatment response is typically assessed after approximately <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">one to five sessions<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2705 If the scar or keloid shows improvement with laser treatment, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">no surgery will be necessary<\/mark>. If improvement is limited, surgical options can be discussed at that point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-14\">\ud83e\ude79 Treatment Option \u2462 Taping and Topical Medications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This approach involves prescribing <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">adhesive medicated patches that can be applied at home<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udccb The patches are cut to cover the hypertrophic scar and replaced every <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">24 or 12 hours<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u23f0 <strong>Note on treatment duration!<\/strong> This method is generally considered <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">less likely to produce significant improvement compared to surgery or the injection-plus-laser approach, and the treatment period tends to be longer<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Continuous use of topical medications and taping for <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">several months or more<\/mark> is required. If improvement is insufficient, other treatment options will be considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 This option is typically recommended for patients who prefer not to undergo surgery or scar injections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-15\">\ud83d\udcb0 Treatment Option \u2463 Specialized Outpatient Care: Self-Pay Surgery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Specialized outpatient care refers to a <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">second-opinion consultation<\/mark>, in which treatment is informed by the perspective of a physician other than the patient\u2019s primary doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2705 Patients who do not have a referral letter from another clinic may still be <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">eligible for surgery depending on the findings of their consultation<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udcb0 Please note, however, that <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">surgery under specialized outpatient care is provided on a self-pay basis<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The surgical procedure itself is the same as standard surgery: the scar or keloid is excised in an elliptical (leaf-shaped) pattern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-16\">\ud83d\udc89 Treatment Option \u2464 Specialized Outpatient Care: Injections + V-Beam Laser<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This treatment combines <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">injections with V-Beam laser therapy<\/mark>, available through our specialized outpatient care program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2728 As a non-surgical approach, it involves <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">administering injections directly into the affected scar or keloid tissue, along with V-Beam laser treatment<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\ude0c Unlike surgical excision, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">multiple treatment sessions may be required<\/mark>; however, this option may be a more accessible starting point for those who are concerned about undergoing surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udcb0 \u203b <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Specialized outpatient care is provided on a self-pay basis<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-sango-light-red-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#ff6b6b;border-width:3px;border-radius:10px;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:20px\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-sango-light-red-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"color:#ff0000\" id=\"i-17\">\ud83c\udfaf Find the Right Treatment for You!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Want to keep costs down with insurance coverage<\/mark> \u2192 Insurance-covered surgery is recommended<br>\n\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Prefer a non-surgical approach<\/mark> \u2192 Laser treatment is recommended<br>\n\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Want to manage treatment at home<\/mark> \u2192 Taping and topical medications are recommended<br>\n\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Declined treatment elsewhere<\/mark> \u2192 Specialized outpatient care is recommended<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udc68\u200d\u2695\ufe0f <strong>Start by consulting a specialist to find the treatment approach that is right for you!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-20959078 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/reservation\/ueno\/\" style=\"background-color:#ff6b6b\">\ud83d\udcde Book a Consultation<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-18\">\u2753 Frequently Asked Questions About Scars and Keloids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/image3-16.jpg\" alt=\"Frequently asked questions about Omnilux Blue\" class=\"wp-image-37686\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below are some frequently asked questions about scars and keloids. Please feel free to refer to any sections that are relevant to your concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1756025738417\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Q: What is the difference between a keloid and a hypertrophic scar?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Keloids and hypertrophic scars <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">look similar, which can make them difficult to tell apart<\/mark>.<br>As a general guide, keloids typically originate from a small wound, become red and raised, grow beyond the original wound boundaries, and may cause pain or itching.<br>Hypertrophic scars also appear red and raised, but are generally considered not to extend beyond the original wound margins\u2014so comparing the size of the scar to that of the original wound may help distinguish the two.<br>That said, it can be difficult to differentiate between keloids and hypertrophic scars based on histological (visual) appearance alone.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-19\">\ud83d\udd2c Q: Are keloids benign or malignant?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The table below summarizes the distinguishing characteristics of benign and malignant skin tumors. Based on these criteria, keloids are considered benign: while they may expand somewhat beyond the original wound, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">their growth is gradual and does not progress aggressively, and keloids are classified as benign tumors<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"id-f1154e60-a011-46d7-8a4c-7cbf560d7bde\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th><\/th><th>\u2705 Benign<\/th><th>\u274c Malignant<\/th><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udccf Size<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Up to 1\u20133 cm<\/mark><\/td><td>3 cm or larger<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udd37 Shape<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Symmetrical<\/mark><\/td><td>Asymmetrical<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udccd Borders<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Well-defined<\/mark><\/td><td>Poorly defined<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83c\udf1f Surrounding skin<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Smooth<\/mark><\/td><td>Irregular<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\ud83d\udc80 Necrosis<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Absent<\/mark><\/td><td>Present<\/td><\/tr><tr><th>\u23f1\ufe0f Growth rate<\/th><td><mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Slow<\/mark><\/td><td>Rapid<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As shown above, malignant tumors are characterized by an asymmetrical shape and a size of 3 cm or more\u2014features that may overlap with some characteristics of keloids. However, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">keloids typically stop growing beyond a certain size and enlarge only slowly<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2705 For these reasons, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">keloids are generally classified as a type of benign tumor<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-20\">\ud83c\udfe5 Consult IC Clinic Ueno (Tokyo) for Scar and Keloid Treatment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\u26a0\ufe0f When scars or keloids develop, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">the tightening effect on the surrounding skin can interfere with daily activities<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While keloids may resemble hypertrophic scars in appearance, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">a key sign of a keloid is that the tissue spreads beyond the boundaries of the original wound<\/mark>. If this is the case, we recommend seeking treatment as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udea8 If you are concerned about a scar or keloid, <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">please consult IC Clinic before the condition progresses further\u2014regardless of its size<\/mark>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-very-light-gray-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#4a90e2;border-width:3px;border-radius:10px;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:20px\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color\" style=\"color:#4a90e2\" id=\"i-21\">\u2728 Why Patients Choose IC Clinic Ueno<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Wide range of options from insurance-covered to self-pay treatments<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Thorough consultations by experienced specialists<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Comprehensive non-surgical treatment options available<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Dedicated aftercare support<\/mark><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2705 <mark style=\"background-color:#ffff00\" class=\"has-inline-color\">Conveniently located within walking distance of Ueno Station<\/mark><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#ff0000\">\ud83d\udc68\u200d\u2695\ufe0f <strong>Please feel free to get in touch with us.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-20959078 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/ic-clinic.com\/reservation\/ueno\/\" style=\"background-color:#4a90e2\">\ud83c\udfaf Book Now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"i-22\">\u26a0\ufe0f Please Note: The following conditions are not treated at our clinic.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\ud83d\udd25 Burns and burn scars<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\ude79 Self-inflicted lacerations (wrist cutting)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83e\udd15 Traumatic injuries and wounds<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udc89 Post-cosmetic surgery conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p><!-- References section --><\/p>\n<section class=\"references\">\n<h2 id=\"i-23\">\ud83d\udcda References<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Japan Dermatological Association &amp; Japanese Society for Wound Surgery. \u201cGuidelines for the Treatment of Scars and Keloids (2018 Revised Edition).\u201d Journal of the Japanese Dermatological Association, 2018.<\/li>\n<li>Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. \u201cClinical Practice Guidelines for Plastic Surgery.\u201d 2015 Edition.<\/li>\n<li>Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. \u201cInsurance Coverage for Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar Treatment.\u201d Notification No. Iseihatu 456, 2019.<\/li>\n<li>International Scar Management Association. \u201cPrevention and Treatment of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars: International Clinical Recommendations.\u201d 2014 Edition (Japanese Translation).<\/li>\n<li>Japan Society for Laser Surgery and Medicine. \u201cGuidelines for Cutaneous Laser Treatment.\u201d 2017 Edition.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"reference-note\">\ud83d\udca1 \u203b The references listed above are provided as sources of medical evidence. For diagnosis and treatment decisions specific to your condition, please consult a qualified specialist.<\/p>\n<\/section>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\ud83d\udca1 What You Will Learn from This Article \ud83d\udce2 If left untreated, keloids can restrict joint movement and, in children, may affect normal growth! \u26a0\ufe0f Please Note: The following conditions are not treated at our clinic. \ud83d\ude1f \u201cWhat causes scars and keloids?\u201c\ud83d\ude30 \u201cHow are scars, keloids, and hypertrophic scars treated?\u201c \ud83d\udc46 If you have questions &#8230; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"parent":79973,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"","_yoast_wpseo_title":"","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-80539","page","type-page","status-publish","entry","nothumb"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/80539","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=80539"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/80539\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":81995,"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/80539\/revisions\/81995"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/79973"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ic-clinic-ueno.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=80539"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}