What is a Hypertrophic Scar?
Hypertrophic Scars: Thick, Raised Tissue
Although hypertrophic scars do not grow beyond the original boundary of the wound, they are much thicker, wider, and consist of significantly more raised tissue than a typical scar exhibits following the healing process. When scars form, they are expected to be initially red, prominent, and very visible; however, with time most scars flatten out and become paler to nearly match the color of the individual’s skin. Hypertrophic scars may or may not flatten out over time and tend to remain pink or red. They can become itchy and painful; however, in most cases hypertrophic scars are most problematic as a cosmetic concern. Treatments are available for these abnormal scars at Allegheny Advanced Dermatology Center.
Why Do Hypertrophic Scars Occur?
Hypertrophic scars develop when excessive amounts of collagen are deposited within the healing wound by myofibroblasts. Although they may form anywhere on the skin of the body, they are most commonly located in areas that have been pierced, within healing burns, cuts, and at the sites where chronic acne occurs. In many cases, the tissue may also develop its own blood vessels and nerve tissue. Hypertrophic scars can occur without a break in the skin tissue. Traumas and injuries can result in the formation of abnormal scar tissue, as well. Some conditions seem to contribute to the likelihood of developing hypertrophic scars:
- Wound Left to Heal Without Stitches
- Infected Wound
- Inflamed Wound
- Wounds Subject to Motion/Tension
- Wounds Over Joints
- Specific Skin Types
Hypertrophic Scar Treatment
Allegheny Advanced Dermatology Center provides medical treatment of persistent hypertrophic scars. Some scars resist all treatment efforts. Aside from prescription medications and in-office care, some of the most effective treatment methods that we recommend include:
- Application of Emollients
- Silicone Scar Patches
- Collagen Inhibitors
- Pressure Dressings
- Subcision
- Pulsed Dye Laser
- Skin Needling
- Surgical Excision
- Corticosteroid Injections
- Cryotherapy
Contact Allegheny Advanced Dermatology Center to schedule an appointment. We offer state-of-the-art medical and cosmetic treatments for all types of raised scar tissue. Call: (814) 944-7109.