- Hypertrophic scars are an overgrowth of scar tissue that occur at the site of a skin injury (excessive formation of collagen). Such scars, although enlarged, do not grow beyond the site of injury, unlike keloids who do grow beyond the injured areas.
- Hypertrophic scars are more common in young women and Afro-Americans. When multiple hypertrophic scars occur or recur, it is known as Keloidosis.
When do hypertrophic scars occur?
- Hypertrophic scars result from injuries of the skin such as surgical incisions, traumatic wounds, vaccination sites, burns, chickenpox, acne and sometimes scrapes (minor lacerations).
- Most hypertrophic scars flatten and become less noticeable over the years and may cause irritation due to rubbing against clothing or other means of friction. Extensive hypertrophic scars can limit mobility, besides cosmetic changes and modify the physical appearance.