Radiosurgery uses ultra-high frequency radio waves to remove scar tissue precisely, under local anaesthetic, with less damage to the surrounding skin than conventional surgery. There is less bleeding and less swelling than cutting would cause.
Excision is never used on its own
A keloid that is simply cut out has a high chance of coming back, often larger than it was. Radiosurgical excision is always followed by another treatment — cryosurgery, steroid injections, imiquimod cream or radiotherapy — to stop it returning.
What happens
- Consultation. Dr Buckley assesses the type, site and condition of the scar to decide whether radiosurgery is appropriate.
- Local anaesthetic. The area is numbed.
- Removal. The scar tissue is removed with radiofrequency instruments. The wound is usually closed with stitches, removed after one to two weeks.
- Aftercare. You get detailed instructions to support healing and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Most people have minimal discomfort and can return to work or school the following day. Healing takes one to two weeks, with the final result visible after a few months as the skin settles.
Who it suits
Radiosurgical excision is worth considering for:
- Keloids with a narrow base
- Stubborn keloids or hypertrophic scars that have not responded to other treatments
- Scars on visible or sensitive areas where precision matters
You can see radiosurgical excision combined with intralesional cryosurgery in several cases on the results page, including a seven-year follow-up.