Hypertrophic scars differ from keloids in several key ways:
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Growth: Hypertrophic scars grow within the boundaries of the original wound and may become raised, but they do not extend beyond the site of the injury. Keloids, on the other hand, can continue to grow and may extend beyond the original wound site, often resulting in larger, more pronounced scars.
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Timeframe: Hypertrophic scars typically develop shortly after an injury or surgical procedure and may improve over time, often flattening and becoming less visible. Keloids may appear weeks to months after the injury and can continue to develop for a long time.
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Symptoms: Hypertrophic scars can be itchy or uncomfortable, but keloids are more likely to be itchy, painful, and sensitive.
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Response to Treatment: Hypertrophic scars often respond well to treatments such as silicone gel sheets, corticosteroid injections, or laser therapy. Keloids can be more difficult to treat and may require more aggressive approaches, such as surgical removal, but they also have a high tendency to recur after treatment.
Overall, the main distinction is that hypertrophic scars are confined to the area of injury, while keloids can proliferate beyond it.