Ears
Keloid Revision
Reduce and remove keloid scars with a comprehensive approach combining surgical excision and adjuvant therapies for the best long-term outcomes.
About Keloid Revision
Keloids are raised, overgrown scars that extend beyond the original wound boundary. They can develop after surgery, injury, piercings, or even minor skin trauma, and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones. Keloids on the ears are particularly common following ear piercings.
Dr. Lemelman takes a comprehensive approach to keloid treatment, combining surgical excision with adjuvant therapies such as corticosteroid injections, radiation therapy, or silicone sheeting to minimize the risk of recurrence — which is the primary challenge in keloid management.
The treatment plan is tailored to the size, location, and history of each keloid, as well as the patient's skin type and prior treatments. Dr. Lemelman will discuss realistic expectations and the importance of post-treatment follow-up to monitor for recurrence.
Benefits
- Removes raised, uncomfortable keloid tissue
- Reduces itching, pain, and tenderness
- Improves appearance and skin texture
- Comprehensive approach minimizes recurrence risk
- Tailored treatment for each patient's skin type
- Combination of surgical and non-surgical options
- Expert care for ear, chest, and other body keloids
- Ongoing follow-up to monitor outcomes
Recovery & What to Expect
Procedure time
30–90 minutes
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia
Return to work
1–3 days
Sutures removed
7–14 days
Adjuvant therapy
Begins within 24 hours of surgery
Follow-up period
12–24 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my keloid come back after surgery?
Keloid recurrence is the primary challenge in treatment. Surgery alone carries a significant recurrence risk, which is why Dr. Lemelman combines excision with adjuvant therapies — such as corticosteroid injections or radiation — to suppress regrowth. With a comprehensive approach, recurrence rates are substantially reduced.
What adjuvant therapies are used after keloid excision?
Common adjuvant therapies include intralesional corticosteroid injections (starting within 24 hours of surgery), low-dose radiation therapy, silicone sheeting, and pressure therapy. The specific protocol depends on the keloid's size, location, and your history of prior treatments.
Can keloids be treated without surgery?
Smaller or early keloids may respond to non-surgical treatments such as corticosteroid injections, silicone sheeting, or laser therapy. However, larger or more established keloids typically require surgical excision combined with adjuvant therapy for the best outcome. Dr. Lemelman will recommend the most appropriate approach for your keloid.
Are keloids more common in certain skin types?
Yes — keloids are significantly more common in individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI) and in those with a personal or family history of keloid formation. This does not prevent treatment, but it does inform the treatment plan and the level of post-operative monitoring required.
How long does follow-up last after keloid treatment?
Dr. Lemelman monitors patients for 12–24 months after treatment, as keloids can recur during this window. Early detection of recurrence allows for prompt intervention — typically additional corticosteroid injections — before the keloid re-establishes itself.
Ready to take the next step?
Every journey begins with a conversation. Book your personal consultation with Dr. Lemelman directly.