How do hypertrophic scars develop compared to keloids?

Hypertrophic scars develop due to an overproduction of collagen during the wound healing process, leading to a raised scar that is typically limited to the boundaries of the original injury. They often form rapidly during the healing phase, which can be characterized by redness and raised tissue. Although hypertrophic scars can be prominent and may improve over time, they generally do not expand beyond the original site of injury.

In contrast, keloids can develop more slowly and are characterized by an excessive formation of thick fibrous tissue that extends beyond the original injury. They can arise from minor skin trauma, surgical incision, or even spontaneous occurrences, which is why understanding their formation helps to distinguish them from hypertrophic scars. Keloids also typically may not appear immediately after injury, as their development can take weeks or even months to manifest.

This context clarifies why the choice regarding the rapid development of hypertrophic scars is the most accurate in reflecting the typical behavior of these scar types.