Keloid Scar Treatment: Expert Care Options for Patients Across California

Dr. Parvin Shafa | February 4, 2026

Keloid scars can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and emotionally distressing—especially when they continue to grow beyond the original injury. Unlike typical scars, keloids do not fade on their own and often require professional medical care.

At OC MedDerm, keloid scars are evaluated and treated by Dr. Parvin Shafa, who brings over 25 years of hands-on experience in medical and surgical dermatology. Patients from Irvine, Orange County, and across California seek care not only for treatment, but for clarity, safety, and long-term results.

This guide explains what keloid scars are, why they form, how keloid scar treatment and removal work, and when it’s time to seek expert dermatologic care.

What Is a Keloid Scar?

A keloid scar is an overgrowth of scar tissue that develops where the skin has healed after an injury. Instead of stopping once the wound closes, the scar tissue continues to grow, forming a raised, thickened area that extends beyond the original injury site.

Keloids are benign (non-cancerous), but they can become large, firm, itchy, tender, or cosmetically concerning.

Why Keloid Scars Are Different From Regular Scars

keloid scar vs normal scar comparison

Unlike normal scars, keloids:

  • Grow beyond the original wound
  • Do not regress naturally over time
  • May continue enlarging for months or years
  • Have a high recurrence rate if improperly treated

This is why professional keloid scar treatment differs significantly from standard scar care.

What Causes Keloid Scars?

Keloids form due to an overactive wound-healing response, leading to excessive collagen production.

Common triggers include:

  • Surgical incisions
  • Acne scars
  • Piercings (especially ears)
  • Cuts, burns, or insect bites
  • Vaccination sites

Some individuals are genetically predisposed, and keloids are more commonly seen in darker skin types—though they can affect anyone.

Common Areas Where Keloids Develop

Keloid scars most often appear on:

  • Ears and earlobes
  • Chest
  • Shoulders
  • Upper back
  • Jawline and neck

These areas are prone to tension and collagen overproduction.

Keloid Scar Treatment Options

There is no single “one-size-fits-all” solution for keloids. Effective treatment depends on the scar’s size, location, thickness, symptoms, and prior treatments.

At OC MedDerm, Dr. Parvin Shafa develops individualized treatment plans based on clinical evaluation and experience.

Non-Surgical Keloid Scar Treatment Options

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of care, especially for smaller or early-stage keloids.

Corticosteroid injections

  • Reduce inflammation
  • Flatten and soften the scar
  • Improve symptoms such as itching or pain

Prescription topical therapies

  • Used in select cases
  • Often combined with other treatments

Pressure therapy or silicone-based treatments

  • May help reduce recurrence when used correctly

When Keloid Scar Removal Is Recommended

Keloid scar removal may be considered when:

  • The keloid is large or symptomatic
  • Conservative treatments fail
  • The scar interferes with movement or daily comfort
  • Cosmetic concerns significantly impact quality of life

Removal is always approached carefully, as keloids have a known risk of recurrence without proper medical management.

Keloid Scar Removal: What to Expect

Professional keloid scar removal is performed in-office by an experienced dermatologist and often combined with adjunct therapies to reduce recurrence.

Steroid Injections for Keloid Scar Removal

Steroid injections may be used:

  • Before removal to shrink the scar
  • After removal to prevent regrowth

This combination significantly improves long-term outcomes.

Surgical Keloid Scar Removal

Surgical removal involves carefully excising the keloid scar. Because surgery alone may trigger regrowth, it is typically paired with:

  • Post-operative steroid injections
  • Ongoing monitoring
  • Additional medical therapies as needed

Laser-Assisted Keloid Scar Removal

Laser therapy may be used to:

  • Reduce thickness
  • Improve texture and color
  • Enhance cosmetic results when combined with other treatments

Can Keloid Scars Come Back After Removal?

Yes—keloids have a high recurrence rate if treated improperly or without follow-up care.

At OC MedDerm, recurrence risk is addressed through:

  • Combination treatment strategies
  • Physician-directed follow-up
  • Long-term scar management planning

This comprehensive approach helps achieve safer, more durable results.

Why At-Home Remedies Are Not Recommended

Over-the-counter products and home remedies often:

  • Fail to treat deep scar tissue
  • Irritate surrounding skin
  • Increase inflammation
  • Delay effective medical care

Professional evaluation ensures the scar is treated safely and correctly from the start.

Keloid Scar Treatment for Patients Across California

OC MedDerm serves patients from Irvine, Orange County, and throughout California seeking experienced dermatologic care for complex scars.

With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Parvin Shafa provides:

  • Accurate diagnosis
  • Evidence-based treatment options
  • Personalized care plans
  • Physician-performed procedures

Many patients travel specifically for expert evaluation and long-term management of keloid scars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keloid Scar Treatment & Removal

Are keloid scars dangerous?

Keloids are benign but may cause discomfort, itching, or cosmetic concerns.

Is keloid scar removal permanent?

Recurrence is possible, which is why combination treatment and follow-up care are essential.

Does keloid scar treatment hurt?

Most procedures are well tolerated and performed with appropriate comfort measures.

How long does treatment take?

Treatment timelines vary. Some keloids require multiple sessions for optimal results.

Will treatment leave a scar?

The goal is to improve appearance and symptoms, not worsen scarring. Professional care minimizes risk.

Final Thoughts: Expert Care Makes the Difference

Keloid scars are complex and require experienced medical management. While online information can be helpful, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment depend on clinical expertise.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Parvin Shafa provides careful, patient-centered keloid scar treatment and removal focused on safety, outcomes, and long-term skin health.

How OC MedDerm Can Help

  • Expert evaluation by Dr. Parvin Shafa
  • Physician-directed keloid scar treatment and removal
  • Advanced, in-office procedures
  • Personalized care for patients across California

Serving patients across California — Call +1(949) 551-1113 or schedule a consultation at OC MedDerm to discuss safe and effective keloid scar treatment options.

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