Keloid Scar Treatment with Post-Excision Radiation

What Are Keloid Scars?

Keloids are raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound. Unlike normal scars, keloids result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. They can develop after surgical incisions, burns, piercings, acne, or even minor skin injuries. Keloids are often painful, itchy, and cosmetically distressing, and they disproportionately affect certain skin types.

The challenge with keloids is their extremely high recurrence rate. Surgical excision alone results in recurrence rates of 50 to 80 percent or higher. Steroid injections, silicone sheeting, and pressure therapy may provide some benefit but frequently fail to prevent regrowth. This cycle of removal and recurrence is frustrating and demoralizing for patients.

How Post-Excision Radiation Prevents Keloid Recurrence

Radiation therapy delivered within 24 to 72 hours after keloid excision is one of the most effective strategies to prevent recurrence. The radiation targets the fibroblasts in the wound bed that would otherwise produce the excessive collagen responsible for keloid formation.

Published studies demonstrate that combining surgical excision with post-operative radiation reduces recurrence rates to approximately 10 to 20 percent — a dramatic improvement over surgery alone. The treatment is delivered in a small number of sessions, typically beginning within one to three days after excision, and each session takes only minutes.

Who Is a Candidate?

• You have had one or more keloids excised that grew back
• Steroid injections have not adequately controlled your keloids
• You have keloids in visible or functionally limiting areas
• You are planning keloid excision and want to maximize your chance of a lasting result

Coordination with your surgeon is straightforward. We work with your excising physician to ensure radiation is initiated within the optimal post-surgical window.

What to Expect at Heelex

Following your keloid excision, you come to our Surprise, AZ clinic for radiation treatments. The procedure is painless and noninvasive, delivered directly to the excision site. Each session lasts only a few minutes. Most patients require three to four sessions over the course of several days. There is no additional downtime beyond what your surgery already requires.

Our team provides clear guidance on timing and coordinates with your surgeon to ensure seamless care.