Keloid and hypertrophic scars are conditions that occur due to excessive tissue production during the wound healing process. Both are formed as a result of the skin's repair mechanism working more than normal. However, unlike hypertrophic scars, keloids can expand beyond the wound boundaries and tend to grow over time. This can be a significant problem, especially for individuals with aesthetic concerns.

Genetic predisposition plays an important role in keloid and hypertrophic scar formation. Such scars are more common in individuals with a family history of keloids. Especially in dark-skinned individuals, fibroblast activity is higher due to genetic factors, and this increases the risk of keloid development. Studies show that some genetic variations can affect wound healing and cause excessive tissue production.

Skin structure and age are among the other factors that affect the formation process of scars. In young individuals, the skin produces more active collagen, which can cause excessive tissue formation. As we age, the skin loses its elasticity and the wound healing process progresses more slowly. In addition, individuals with dark and oily skin types have a higher risk of developing hypertrophic scars.

Surgical interventions, traumas and burns are the most common causes of keloid and hypertrophic scar formation. The risk of developing hypertrophic scars is higher in areas where the wound is tense. For example, wounds in areas such as the chest, shoulder and back usually leave more visible scars. Improper application of surgical sutures can create excessive pressure on the wound and trigger excessive tissue production.

Infections that develop during wound healing can cause the immune system to be overstimulated, leading to excessive tissue production. Infected wounds usually become more inflamed, which can cause the scar to become larger and more visible. Therefore, care should be taken in wound care, hygiene rules should be followed and appropriate treatment methods should be applied to reduce the risk of infection.

Hormones can also affect the wound healing process. During puberty, pregnancy and other periods when hormonal changes are intense, increased growth factors in the body can increase fibroblast activity and increase the risk of keloids. It has been observed that the probability of keloid development is higher in women, especially after pregnancy.

The main difference between a hypertrophic scar and a keloid is that a hypertrophic scar does not extend beyond the boundaries of the wound and can shrink over time. A keloid, on the other hand, usually continues to grow, extends over normal skin tissue, and tends to recur frequently. Keloids are more difficult to treat, and surgical removal can often result in regrowth.

To prevent the formation of such scars, wound care should be done carefully, excessive pressure should not be applied to the wound area, and the risk of infection should be minimized. Preventive treatment methods can be applied to individuals at high risk of developing keloid and hypertrophic scars. Silicone-based creams, pressure treatments, and some medical injections can make scars lighter. Suture techniques should be carefully selected in surgical interventions, and the wound area should be protected from tension as much as possible.