What is the typical appearance of a keloid?

A keloid is characterized by its raised and thickened appearance, often extending beyond the boundaries of the original wound. This type of scar forms as a result of an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, which leads to excessive fibrous tissue forming at the site of injury.

Clinically, keloids are usually firm to the touch and can be larger than the original lesion. Their surface may vary in texture and can sometimes become discolored, appearing hyperpigmented, but they fundamentally stand out due to their elevation and expansion beyond the original injury. The abnormal growth can continue to enlarge even after the wound has healed, which distinguishes keloids from regular scars that typically remain flat and contained.

In contrast, flat and smooth scars would not fit the description of a keloid, as they do not exhibit the raised characteristics that define these types of scars. Similarly, a bright red and inflamed bump may suggest an acute inflammation or infection rather than a keloid, while a pale and thin scar generally describes normal scar healing or atrophic scars, which are not consistent with the elevated nature of a keloid.