| Since acne scars come in various sizes and shapes,
individualizing treatments becomes necessary to maximize the results.
At the consultation, Dr. Rapaport chooses one or a number of different
methods that are customized to patient’s needs. For example,
subcision (undermining), the TCA CROS Method, Fraxel resurfacing,
CO2 or Erbium Laser Resurfacing, and the use of filler substances
are appropriate for different types of lesions.
For smooth-walled (rolling) depressed scars, Dr. Rapaport usually
treats the scars with subcision and the NLite laser. During a subcision
session, Dr. Rapaport uses a specialized needle to break up scar
tissue underneath the depression. The ensuing wound repair process
results in the production of collagen in the treated area, causing
the depression to slowly fill in from underneath. NLite treatments are recommended within a few days of subcision to bring about a
more dramatic collagen production response.
For “box car” depressions and certain types of sharper
edged scars, subcision in combination with the Fraxel
laser has been highly effective. The Fraxel has proven to be
an excellent tool to smooth out sharper borders non-ablatively with
results that are superior to those resulting from more invasive
resurfacing technologies (i.e. CO2). In fact, if the scars being
treated are superficial, subcision can probably be circumvented
altogether. Additionally, patients being treated with the Fraxel
benefit from the laser’s inherent ability to reduce the visibility
of pores, a common problem for people plagued with acne.
For certain kinds of pitted scars, Dr. Rapaport will often recommend
the TCA localized Peeling (also
called the TCA CROSS Method). During
such treatment, a high concentration of Trichlorocetic acid is introduced
just inside the scar. The resurfacing response that occurs inside
the depression stimulates collagen production that, over multiple
sessions, causes the scar to rise up and close in on itself.
Excision is recommended to treat pitted scars that are not amenable
to the CROS Method. As a general rule, for those patients requiring
multiple excisions, at least a localized laser resurfacing is done
afterwards to smooth over the remaining stitch marks.
Many types of elevated scars can also be treated by flattening
or leveling with laser resurfacing or Radio Frequency surgery.
Full face chemical peels are often recommended for discoloration
caused by acne. However, such treatments are not effective on depressed
scar tissue. Skin acne types Misconceptions about Acne
We are always available to answer your questions, feel free to email us or call us at (201) 227-1555
|
