What is a Keloid?
Keloids are thick, raised scars that grow beyond the edges of the original wound. Unlike normal scars, they do not flatten over time. Instead, they continue to expand, sometimes becoming large, tender, or itchy. Keloids can appear after surgery, injury, acne, body piercing, or any break in the skin, and they tend to run in families.
At Clearview Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists offer effective keloid removal and treatment for patients throughout
Arvada,
Littleton, and
Evergreen, Colorado. We take a personalized approach to each patient because no two keloids are the same. Our goal is to reduce the scar as much as possible while minimizing the risk of recurrence.
What Does a Keloid Look Like?
Keloids are firm, smooth, and shiny in appearance. They can range in color from flesh-toned to pink, red, or dark brown, and they often feel rubbery or hard to the touch. Unlike hypertrophic scars, which stay within the original wound boundary, keloids extend outward into surrounding healthy skin.
Common locations for keloids include:
- Earlobes (often following ear piercing)
- Shoulders and upper chest
- Upper back
- Jawline and beard area
- Surgical incision sites
- Areas of previous acne
If you have a raised scar that seems to be growing or is causing discomfort, a dermatologist evaluation is the right first step.
Keloid Treatment Options at Clearview
There is no single treatment that works for every keloid, which is why our dermatologists evaluate each patient individually before recommending a plan. At Clearview Dermatology, we offer several evidence-based keloid treatments, sometimes used in combination for the best results.
Corticosteroid Injections
Steroid injections are the most common first-line treatment for keloids. A series of injections is given directly into the scar over several weeks to months. This softens and flattens the keloid over time and reduces itching and tenderness. Most patients require multiple sessions.
Surgical Removal
In some cases, surgical excision of the keloid is appropriate. Because keloids have a known recurrence rate after surgery alone, we typically combine excision with steroid injections or other post-operative treatments to reduce the chance of the keloid returning.
Cryotherapy
Controlled freezing of the keloid tissue can reduce its size and improve its appearance, particularly for smaller keloids.
Combination Therapy
For larger or more persistent keloids, we may recommend a combination approach using surgical removal followed by steroid injections and possibly silicone sheeting or compression therapy during healing.
What to Expect at Your Keloid Appointment
Your first appointment at Clearview Dermatology begins with a full evaluation of the scar. Your provider will ask about when it appeared, how it has changed over time, any previous treatments you have tried, and your family history.
Based on that evaluation, we will recommend a treatment plan tailored to the size, location, and age of your keloid, as well as your skin type and personal goals. Most keloid treatments are performed in the office without the need for general anesthesia.
We will also talk with you honestly about what results to expect. Keloids can be significantly reduced in size and improved in appearance, but complete elimination is not always achievable. Our goal is meaningful, lasting improvement with the lowest possible risk of recurrence.
Does Insurance Cover Keloid Removal?
Coverage for keloid removal depends on your insurance plan and the clinical indication. When a keloid is causing pain, itching, or functional limitation, it may be covered as a medical procedure. Purely cosmetic removal is typically not covered.
Our team will review your insurance situation during your consultation and provide a clear picture of expected costs before any treatment begins. We work with most major insurance plans accepted in Colorado.
If you are paying out of pocket, we will provide transparent pricing upfront so you can make an informed decision.
Why Choose Clearview Dermatology for Keloid Removal
Our providers are board-certified dermatologists and trained mid-level providers with extensive experience in scar treatment across all skin types. Keloids are more common in patients with darker skin tones, and our team is experienced in treating patients of all backgrounds with appropriate care and technique.
We serve patients from across the Denver metro area at three convenient Colorado
locations in
Arvada,
Littleton, and
Evergreen. Same-week appointments are often available for new patients.
Call
(720) 797-9184 or request an appointment online to schedule your keloid consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does keloid removal cost in Colorado?
Cost depends on the size of the keloid and the treatment selected. Steroid injection series typically range from $150 to $400 per session. Surgical removal is more variable based on complexity. If your keloid qualifies as a medical procedure, insurance may cover part or all of the cost. We provide transparent pricing at your consultation so you know what to expect before committing to any treatment.
Will my keloid come back after removal?
Keloids have a known tendency to recur, particularly after surgical removal alone. That is why we typically combine surgery with other treatments such as steroid injections to reduce the recurrence risk. Steroid injections alone have a lower recurrence rate than surgery alone. Your provider will discuss realistic expectations and the steps we take to minimize regrowth at your consultation.
How many steroid injection sessions will I need?
Most patients require a series of three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, though this varies based on the size and age of the keloid. Newer keloids tend to respond more quickly than older, more established ones. Your provider will reassess your response after each session and adjust the plan as needed.
Can keloids be removed from any area of the body?
Yes. Clearview Dermatology treats keloids on the earlobes, shoulders, chest, back, jawline, and other areas. Treatment approach may vary based on location. Earlobe keloids, for example, are very common after ear piercing and often respond well to a combination of surgical removal and steroid injections.
Is keloid removal painful?
Steroid injections cause brief discomfort at the injection site, which most patients describe as a stinging or pressure sensation that resolves quickly. Topical numbing cream can be applied before the procedure to reduce discomfort. Surgical removal is performed under local anesthesia so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself. Post-operative soreness is mild and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist for a keloid?
No referral is needed to schedule a keloid consultation at Clearview Dermatology. You can call our office directly at (720) 797-9184 or request an appointment online. We accept most major insurance plans and are currently accepting new patients at all three of our Colorado locations.
Ready to Address Your Keloid?
Schedule a consultation at any of our three Front Range locations. Our board-certified dermatologists will evaluate your scar and recommend the most effective treatment for your situation.
