Keloid scar treatment includes a range of options, and the cost can vary based on the type of treatment and how many sessions are required. Both non-surgical and surgical options may be considered, depending on the size, location, and severity of the scar. Understanding the factors that affect pricing can help patients prepare for their consultation and discuss suitable choices with a healthcare provider.
What is a Keloid Scar?
A keloid is a type of raised scar that forms due to an overactive healing response in the skin. Instead of stopping once the wound is closed, the skin continues to produce tissue, causing a thickened, sometimes itchy or uncomfortable scar. Keloids may appear after injuries, surgeries, piercings, or even acne. They can vary in size, colour, and firmness. Keloids usually grow beyond the original injury site and affect movement or comfort.
Treatment Options for Keloid Scars
Keloid scar treatment may involve either non-surgical or surgical options, depending on the size, location, and severity of the scar. Non-surgical options can include the use of creams or gels, anti-inflammatory injections, dressings, compression magnet use and light-based treatment. These methods are often used across several sessions and may be suitable for smaller or early-stage keloids. On the other hand, surgical treatment may be considered for larger or more persistent scars and involves removing part or all of the scar tissue, sometimes followed by supportive treatments like anti-inflammatory injection based treatments, dressings or light therapy to reduce the chance of the scar returning.
Factors That Affect Treatment Costs
Patients planning keloid scar treatment should be aware of a few key factors that can influence the overall cost. These include the following:
- Type of Treatment: The kind of treatment chosen—whether non-surgical or surgical—can affect the overall cost. Non-surgical treatments, like creams, ointments, special dressings, anti-inflammatory injections or light-based therapies, are usually done over several sessions to help manage the keloid. Surgical treatment may involve removing some or all of the scar and may be followed by other treatments to lower the chance of it coming back. Each option may need different equipment, products, and follow-up visits, which can add to the total cost.
- Number of Sessions: Keloid treatment often takes more than one visit. Non-surgical care, such as gels, anti-inflammatory injections or light-based treatments, may need several sessions to see results. Even after surgery, patients may need follow-up care to help stop the keloid from coming back. More sessions usually mean higher overall costs.
- Size, Thickness, and Location of the Scar: Keloids that are larger or thicker often take more time to treat and may need extra care, which can affect the cost. Scars on areas like the chest, shoulders, face, or near joints may need more careful treatment. Some parts of the body are also more likely to develop new scars, so extra steps may be needed to help manage this.
- Personalised Treatment Planning: Each patient’s skin and healing process is different, so treatment plans are made to suit their specific needs. Dr Ed begins with an assessment that looks at medical history, past treatments, and the patient’s aesthetic or medical goals. The time and care taken to plan the treatment can affect the overall cost.
- Aftercare and Supportive Treatments: Care after the main treatment plays an important role in how the skin heals. This can include using special creams, gels, wearing dressings, or returning for check-ups to see how the scar is changing. In some cases, these follow-up steps are part of the overall treatment plan, while in others, they may be added separately. These extra steps can affect the total cost and are often adjusted based on how the skin responds.
Consultation and Assessment
Before starting treatment, a consultation with Dr Ed at The DOC Cosmetic and Skin Clinic in Melbourne is needed. During this visit, the keloid scar is checked, and the patient’s medical history is discussed to see if treatment is suitable. He also explains what the treatment may involve, including possible risks and how many sessions might be needed, so patients can make an informed decision. A formal quote is provided post the initial consultation and examination process. Medicare can assist in some of the fees relating to treating keloid scars.
Why Choose The DOC Clinic for Keloid Scar Treatment in Melbourne
The DOC Cosmetic and Skin Clinic offers patient care that follows recognised medical standards. Treatments are provided under the direction of Dr Ed Omarjee, a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australasia (CPCA), and the Australasian College of Aesthetic Medicine (ACAM). His clinical experience includes training in skin surgery with a focus on cosmetic medicine and non-surgical skin concerns.
The team at The DOC Cosmetic and Skin Clinic in Melbourne is experienced in treating different types of scars, including raised or firm keloids that have been present for a long time. Treatments may include non-surgical or surgical options depending on the size and behaviour of the scar. Before starting any treatment, patients are assessed thoroughly to determine the most appropriate approach.
Dr Ed discusses the expected costs during the consultation, taking into account the type of treatment, number of sessions, and whether any aftercare is needed. He ensures that patients understand what each step involves and how the costs are structured. This open approach helps support clear planning and realistic expectations.
Further Reading about Keloid Scars with Dr Ed:
- Read the DOC keloid scar removal/treatment page
- Check the DOC keloid scar removal before and after gallery
- Read the DOC blog: Keloid Scarring: What are the Real Facts?
- Read the DOC blog: What Are Keloid Scars and Can They Be Treated?
- Read the DOC blog: Best Treatment for Keloids & Hypertrophic Scarring
- Read the DOC blog: How To Prevent Keloid Scars from Growing Back
- Read the DOC blog: Piercing Bump vs Keloid Scar: What’s The Difference?
- Read the DOC blog: What Is The Success Rate of Keloid Scar Treatment?
Medical References about Keloid Scars
