Reconstructive Surgery - Various Conditions

Hypertrophic Scars

Table of Contents

Hypertrophic scars are unsightly scars that may appear on the skin after trauma of any cause. They are a fairly common condition caused by abnormal tissue healing due to excessive scar tissue development in the area of the wound.

A hypertrophic scar may appear after:

injury
burn
surgical procedure
tattoo
scar acne

What causes hypertrophic scars?

The cause of hypertrophic scar formation is unknown; however, there is evidence suggesting that hereditary factors may be involved. Like keloids, in most cases they begin to form during the first weeks after injury.

In general, it is very difficult to predict whether a hypertrophic scar will develop after an injury. However, the likelihood of developing a hypertrophic scar is greater if the person has previously developed a hypertrophic scar elsewhere on the body.

What do hypertrophic scars look like?

Hypertrophic scars are caused by abnormal skin healing, resulting in scars that:

are raised, meaning they protrude above the normal skin
develop strictly within the boundaries of the initial injury, without extending beyond the traumatic surface
usually have the color of the skin, although they may become red from time to time
are never accompanied by itching or pain
usually do not subside over time.

In which areas of the body do hypertrophic scars usually develop?

They may appear anywhere on the body; however, they are more common on the back and chest.

What is the difference between a hypertrophic scar and a keloid?

Both hypertrophic scars and keloids are abnormal forms of wound healing. However:

Hypertrophic scars remain strictly within the traumatic surface, while keloids extend beyond the boundaries of the injured skin.
Hypertrophic scars do not cause itching or pain and are completely asymptomatic, while keloids cause itching.
Hypertrophic scars usually have the color of the skin, while keloids are red or cherry-colored, with small blood vessels on their surface.