I. Kelman Cohen1 Contact Information and Barbara J. McCoy1
(1) Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Virginia, 23298 Richmond, Virginia, USA
Lesions of “surface overhealing” include keloid, hypertrophic scar, and burn scar. All are characterized by overabundant collagen deposition. The biology of these lesions is reviewed, suggesting that abnormal collagen metabolism results from alterations in the inflammatory/immune response. Practical and theoretical treatment plans are outlined based on methods that alter collagen metabolism, the inflammatory/immune system or rely on physical alterations (surgery, pressure).