Why does the skin around my stitches itch and develop cysts?

Q: My skin has a tendency to develop cysts that surfaces on the skin in the form of solid lumps, whenever some stitches are made on it. This looks very awkward. I approached a skin specialist but this could not be treated. I have itching on the affected portion and it continues for a long time. The itching is terrible on the stitches made after my caesarean delivery, which was done one and a half years back. Please advise.

A:This is a condition know as keloid. This is nothing but excess scar tissue which has not stopped forming. This is a tendency some people have. Any surgical intervention for these things will result in aggravating the situation. Presently the only widely used form of treatment is an intra keloidal injection of steroids which are given when it is active i.e. when it itches and increases in size. These have to be given carefully and at 15 days intervals for 4 or 5 times. Apart from these you might require some kind of pressure garment, which would also help. Please consult a plastic surgeon near you who will be able to help you out with these.