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Alternative to Fraxel Laser for Ice Pick Scars?

asked 2 years ago by candy_gurl in KS
Latest answer by Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD
Question viewed 992 times
Tags: downtime, ice pick scar, scar

Is there another procedure besides Fraxel that can help improve or eliminate ice pick scars? A procedure that does not involve multiple visits or passes? Longer downtime is okay.

4 answers to Alternative to Fraxel Laser for Ice Pick Scars?

+1

Treating ice pick scars

Ice pick scars are difficult to treat and usually require multiple modalities. I would begin with surgical excision. Phase two would be skin resurfacing. The best laser is CO2. I would recommend two or more Fraxel repair or a series of Fraxel restore treatments. You are better off having more treatments with less downtime and risk than an aggressive older style CO2 laser which has a greater risk of complications. I have also found replacing lost facial volume as a tremendous benefit to acne... more
Ran Y. Rubinstein, MD

Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

The best treatment for ice pick acne scar is a two stage treatment.

There is no resurfacing method that in my opinion by itself is effective in improving ice pick acne scars. Too many physicians and other providers try to resurface them alone and this does not sufficiently improve their appearance. And I agree with you that a fraxel treatment would be a waste of your time and only give you minimal improvement. The best initial treatment is punch excision of the ice pick scars to change them from divets or depressions to linear scars. Once the linear scars... more
Scott Trimas, MD

Jacksonville Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Fraxel won't eliminate ice pick scars

The best way to eliminate ice pick scars is by excising them.  Visit an experienced plastic surgeon or facial plastic surgeon for a consultation.  Fraxel will likely leave you disappointed. 
Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS

Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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