For ten long years, Rodolfo carried the burden of a large Acne Keloidalis Nuchae lesion at the back of his neck. More than just a medical condition, the mass became a daily source of discomfort and self-consciousness. He hesitated to undergo surgery because he feared the challenges of healing in such a mobile area.
Eventually, he figured that enough was enough, and he needed to be able to help himself. That’s when he found Dr. Sanusi Umar, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in AKN removal. Through specialized techniques that he developed, Dr. Umar not only eliminated the AKN scalp bumps but also left Rodolfo with minimal scarring and aesthetically pleasing results.

Rodolfo’s scalp before and after AKN surgery with second intention healing under Dr. Umar’s care.
What are the challenges of surgically excising scalp bumps?
Many people assume that once the AKN lesion is surgically cut out, the journey ends. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Surgical excision in the nape and scalp area comes with unique challenges:
- Wound splitting open due to excessive tension and constant movement.
- Difficulty closing the wound if a wide excision was made.
- Bulky, visible scarring, especially if skin grafts were used to close the wound.
These factors have driven Dr. Umar to develop secondary intention wound healing techniques, including the invention of the Athena Tension Suture Kit, a surgical tool designed to facilitate high-tension wound healing.
Watch our YouTube Short on Rodolfo’s story here:
Dr. Umar’s Secondary Intention Wound Healing Technique
Rodolfo knew that surgical excision wouldn’t be the end of his struggle with AKN. The healing process is just as important to achieving results that he could be proud of. This is why Dr. Umar recommended secondary intention wound healing.

Side view of Rodolfo’s scalp showing dramatic improvement after AKN removal and second intention healing with Dr. Umar.
Unlike traditional closure techniques, where a surgeon pulls wound edges together with stitches or grafts, secondary intention healing allows the wound to close naturally over time. The body builds new tissue from the inside out, gradually smoothing the area and blending it with the natural hairline. This type of healing is particularly ideal for AKN excision because it lowers the risk of recurrence, avoids tension in mobile areas like the neck, and reduces raised and unnatural-looking scars.
To further optimize healing, Dr. Umar invented the Athena Tension Suture Kit, a patented surgical tool designed to gently bring wound edges together under controlled tension. This innovation reduces skin tearing while guiding the wound toward a natural-looking outcome.
Roldolfo’s Aesthetically Pleasing Scalp Keloid Removal Results
Rodolfo understood that removing the lesion was only half the battle, and that the real success would come from how his scalp healed afterward. Secondary intention wound healing can take weeks if not months to fully recover, which is why he had to follow a rigorous wound care routine. This included regular cleaning, dressing changes, and follow-up visits.
Healing took patience, but the payoff was worth it. Today, Rodolfo’s scalp is smooth, flat, and naturally contoured to his hairline, with only minimal scarring as a reminder of what he overcame.

After living with AKN for years, Rodolfo’s scalp healed smoothly with Dr. Umar’s second intention technique, leaving him happier, more confident, and free from painful bumps.
Hope for Others Living with This Painful Skin Condition
Secondary intention wound healing worked for Rodolfo, and it could work for you, too. His story is just one of many patients who have gone through this healing method with Dr. Sanusi Umar. If you or anyone you know is suffering from AKN and is curious about second intention healing, fill out our free online consultation form to be reviewed by Dr. Umar.
Individual results may vary. This story reflects one patient’s personal experience with Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) and treatment with Dr. Umar. Consult with a qualified physician for personalized advice.