It has been estimated that keloids affect up to 6 million Americans. But what causes a C section keloid scar and what can be done about it?

What Are C Section Keloids?
Well regardless of a keloid’s location, basically it is a scar that doesn’t know when to stop growing. Instead of just developing a small scar along the cut, a keloid will keep growing over time. Like regular scar tissue, keloids are made primarily of collagen. A C section keloid scar is one which grows out of the C section incision line.

Please note that a C section keloid scar should not be confused with a hypertrophic scar, which may look similar. A hypertrophic scar is one which usually become bed, itchy, and raised during the months following the cut. Over time it should subside. Meanwhile a keloid is a scar which continues to grow. In order to diagnosis your type of scar, it would be best to consult a doctor.

What Causes Keloids?
This type of scarring is also found to be most prevalent in those with darker skin pigmentation. Despite it being an age-old problem, the exact cause of keloids is not know, however it does appear there is a genetic link. So not only do we not know what causes them, but we also don’t know when they will occur.

Some people won’t develop their first keloid scar until later on in life. Some people will develop them in one area of the body (such as where the C section scar is made) but they won’t develop them elsewhere. So this is an extremely confusing and frustrating problem due to its unpredictable nature.  It can be especially scary if it’s the first keloid you’ve ever had, but if so, please don’t be alarmed. Fortunately, keloids are usually considered to be more of a cosmetic issue rather than a health issue.

What to do if you have a C section keloid scar?
Without a doubt, you will need to visit a dermatologist that is a keloid specialist. Everyone requires a different treatment plan depending on their skin type and keloid history (if they even have a history). The doctor may use a series cortisone injections, a freezing treatment, or he may perform surgery to remove the scar. There are also other keloid scar removal treatments which he may use. Don’t try and remove your C section keloid scar yourself, because there is a relatively high risk it will come back for many people. This is why you need professional medical care to help minimize the risk of another keloid returning in its place.