There are many different types of keloids that we see in our Los Angeles, plastic surgery office. Among the most common types of scars, we see a condition known as acne keloids. Acne keloids are small, raised, and inflamed inflammatory scars that arise in areas of previous cystic acne. Most patients who have acne keloids have a history of inflammatory cystic acne that caused keloid scars to form during the healing phase. These keloids begin as small bumps under the skin and often progress to larger scars over time. Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian is a double board certified plastic surgeon who has spent the last 20 years specializing in the management of keloid scars. If you have keloids from surgery - or from acne - the treatments are each different and our comprehensive plastic surgery clinic can help you navigate the choices for keloid management.

Acne Keloids on Chest and Back: Causes, Prevention, & Treatment Los Angeles

Acne keloids on the chest and back can be frustrating, painful, and difficult to treat without professional care. These raised, thick scars develop when the skin produces excess collagen after inflammation caused by acne. Unlike typical acne scars, keloids grow beyond the original blemish and may continue to enlarge over time. If you’re dealing with acne keloids on your chest or back, understanding the causes and treatment options can help you find the most effective solution—especially when working with an experienced Los Angeles keloid specialist.

What Are Acne Keloids?

Acne keloids are a type of raised scar that forms after inflammatory acne lesions heal. Instead of flattening over time, the scar tissue grows excessively, creating a firm, rubbery bump that extends beyond the original area of skin damage.
Keloids commonly appear on areas of the body where the skin is thicker and more prone to tension, including:

• Chest
• Upper back
• Shoulders
• Jawline

These scars may be:

• Pink, red, or darker than surrounding skin
• Itchy or tender
• Smooth and shiny in appearance

Why Chest & Back Acne Keloids Occur?

The chest and back are among the most common areas for acne keloids due to several factors:

1. Increased Skin Tension

These areas experience constant movement and stretching, which can trigger abnormal scar formation.

2. Deep Inflammatory Acne

Cystic or nodular acne penetrates deeper into the skin, increasing the risk of keloid development.

3. Genetic Predisposition

Some individuals are more likely to develop keloids due to hereditary factors.

4. Delayed or Improper Acne Treatment

Untreated or aggressively picked acne lesions can worsen inflammation and increase scarring risk.

Who Is Most at Risk for Keloid Scarring?

You may have a higher risk of developing acne keloids if you:

• Have a family history of keloids
• Have darker skin tones
• Experience severe or cystic acne
• Have previously developed keloids from cuts, burns, or piercings

Early treatment is key to preventing small acne scars from progressing into larger keloids.

Acne Keloid Treatment Options in Los Angeles

There is no single “one-size-fits-all” solution for acne keloids. The most effective treatment plans often combine multiple approaches tailored to the size, location, and severity of the scars.

Cortisone Steroid Injections for Keloids

Intralesional corticosteroid injections are one of the most common treatments for acne keloids on the chest and back. These injections help:

• Reduce inflammation
• Flatten raised scars
• Decrease itching and discomfort

Multiple sessions are typically required for optimal results.

Laser Treatment for Acne Keloids

Laser therapy is a highly effective option for improving the appearance of keloids. Treatments such as pulsed dye laser (PDL) can:

• Reduce redness
• Flatten scar tissue
• Improve skin texture

Laser treatments are often combined with steroid injections for enhanced results

Surgical Removal of Keloids

For larger or resistant acne keloids, surgical excision may be recommended. This involves carefully removing the scar tissue and applying advanced closure techniques to minimize recurrence.
Because keloids can return after surgery, this approach is often combined with:

• Steroid injections
• Laser therapy
• Post-surgical scar management

Silicone Sheets and Topical Treatments

Silicone-based products can help flatten and soften keloids over time. These are typically used as part of a broader treatment plan and are most effective on newer scars.

Advanced Combination Therapy

The most successful outcomes often come from combining treatments. A customized plan may include:

• Steroid injections
• Laser therapy
• Surgical removal (if needed)
• Ongoing maintenance treatments

How to Prevent Acne Keloids on the Chest and Back

Preventing acne keloids starts with managing acne early and reducing inflammation.

Prevention tips:

• Treat acne promptly with medical-grade solutions
• Avoid picking or squeezing pimples
• Use gentle skincare products
• Protect skin from excessive friction
• Seek professional treatment for persistent acne

Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of permanent scarring.

When to See a Keloid Specialist in Los Angeles

If you notice raised scars forming after acne—especially on the chest or back—it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early-stage keloids are easier to treat and respond better to non-surgical therapies.
Patients in Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and the greater Los Angeles area have access to advanced keloid treatments that can significantly improve both appearance and comfort.

Why Choose Kare Surgery for Acne Keloid Treatment?

Kare Surgery specializes in advanced scar and keloid treatments using a personalized, multi-modality approach. With extensive experience treating challenging keloids on the chest and back, the practice offers:

• Customized treatment plans
• Advanced laser technologies
• Expertise in surgical and non-surgical options
• A focus on minimizing recurrence

Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Keloids

Can acne cause keloids on the chest and back?

Yes, severe or cystic acne can trigger keloid formation, especially in high-risk areas like the chest and upper back.

Are acne keloids permanent?

Keloids do not go away on their own, but they can be significantly improved with professional treatment.

What is the best treatment for acne keloids?

The best results typically come from a combination of steroid injections, laser therapy, and, in some cases, surgical removal.

Do keloids come back after treatment?

Keloids can recur, which is why combination therapy and ongoing management are important.

How soon should I treat a keloid?

As early as possible. Early treatment leads to better outcomes and may prevent the keloid from growing larger.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re struggling with acne keloids on your chest or back, expert treatment can make a significant difference. A personalized approach can help flatten scars, reduce discomfort, and restore smoother skin.
Contact Kare Surgery today to learn more about your treatment options in Los Angeles.

Kare Plastic Surgery
Experts in Keloid Treatment in Santa Monica and Los Angeles
804 7th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
(310) 998-5533

 #bestdermatologistforkeloids