hypertrophic scar
Quick Summary
A hypertrophic scar is an excessively thick and fibrous growth that remains confined within the limits of a wound. This occurs during the healing process when specialized cells called fibroblasts produce fibrous connective tissue made of collagen. While normal scar tissue is made of whitish, inelastic fibers, hypertrophic scars grow overly thick. These scars, along with keloids, can be particularly troublesome when they result from severe burns and cover large areas, potentially inhibiting movement, especially around joints. Plastic surgeons consider treating prominent scars a significant challenge.12
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