What are keloids & why they matter

• A keloid is a raised, thickened scar that grows beyond the boundaries of the original wound due to excessive collagen production.
• They often occur after surgical incisions, piercings (especially earlobe), burns, acne or other trauma.
• Keloids can cause cosmetic concerns, discomfort (itching / pain), restricted movement (if near joints) and may progressively enlarge.

  Common treatment methods in Seoul

  Here are major modalities used in Seoul clinics for keloid removal / management:

• Intralesional steroid injections: Steroid (corticosteroid) injections into the keloid to flatten and soften the scar.
• Laser therapy (e.g., Pulsed Dye Laser, CO₂, Fraxel): To reduce redness, flatten tissue, improve texture.
• Surgical excision: Cutting out the keloid tissue. However high recurrence risk unless combined with supportive therapy.
• Cryotherapy / Freezing: Less common but used for smaller lesions; freezing the scar tissue.
• Silicone gel sheets / Pressure therapy: Non-invasive adjunct therapies to prevent recurrence and flatten scars.
• Radiation therapy (post-surgical): In selected recurrent cases, low-dose superficial radiation after excision to minimise regrowth.

  Typical cost ranges in Seoul

• For intralesional steroid injections: approx ₩80,000–₩150,000 per session (for small-to-moderate size keloids) reported.
• Laser treatment for keloids: ~ ₩150,000–₩300,000 per session (depending on size / device) in some Seoul clinics.
• Surgical excision (if indicated): can range ~ ₩300,000–₩600,000+ (depending on size, location).
• Note: multiple sessions are often required; variable cost depending on area, severity, method, and follow-up.

  Who is a good candidate?

  You’re likely a good candidate if you:

• Have a raised scar that extends beyond the original wound, remains firm, itchy or growing.
• Experienced a scar (post­surgery, ear-piercing, acne) that hasn’t improved and bothers you cosmetically or functionally.
• Are willing to consider a multi-phase treatment plan (not just one session).
• Understand the risk of recurrence and are prepared for after-care and preventive strategies.
• Are healthy overall and able to follow after-care instructions (no uncontrolled chronic illness, good skin healing capacity).

  Pros & cons

✅ Pros:

• Significant flattening and improvement in appearance and symptoms (itching/pain) are achievable.
• Seoul clinics often offer advanced laser/therapy combinations tailored to scar type.
• Non-invasive or minimally invasive options available (injection + laser) for many cases.

⚠️ Cons / Things to note:

• Keloids have a high risk of recurrence, especially if only one method is used. ilsan.chamc.co.kr+1
• Some methods may require multiple sessions and long-term follow-up.
• Results vary widely: age of scar, size, location, skin type and treatment choice all influence outcome.
• Surgical excision alone may worsen the keloid if preventive therapy (like radiation or injections) is not used.
• Cost and travel logistics for international patients need careful planning (if you’re non-resident).

  Key questions to ask your provider

• What method(s) do you recommend for my keloid (size & location-specific)?
• What is the realistic expectation (flattening %, symptom relief, recurrence risk) for this treatment?
• How many sessions are likely needed and what is the interval between?
• What are the costs, including follow-ups, maintenance, potential revisits?
• What after-care will be required? (e.g., silicone sheet, pressure therapy, sun protection)
• What is the risk of recurrence, and what is your protocol if it recurs?
• Are before & after photos available for similar cases (same area/skin type)?
• What support exists for international patients (if applicable) – e.g., translation, follow-up visits, costs of revisits.

  After-care & preventive tips

• Use silicone gel sheets or silicone tape as recommended: these help flatten and prevent recurrence.
• Protect the area from sun exposure (UV can worsen pigmentation of scar).
• Avoid trauma, friction or irritation to the area (since keloids often result from wound healing gone awry).
• Follow your clinic’s instruction on any pressure garments or adhesive support if required (especially ear lobe or chest keloids).
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle—good nutrition, optimal wound healing capacity, no smoking.
• Monitor the area for early signs of regrowth and return for follow-up if needed.

  Summary

Keloid removal in Seoul is well-supported by modern dermatologic and plastic-surgery efforts combining injections, lasers, surgery and adjunctive therapies. While complete eradication cannot always be guaranteed, significant improvement — flattening of the scar, reduced symptoms, and reduced recurrence risk — is realistic. Careful provider selection, clear expectations, active after-care and follow-up are essential.