What can I do to correct scars and stretched pores from picking? Now on Accutane, will laser or microneedling help? (photo)

Question

Hello, thank you very much for your time! I've always struggled with some scarring from picking, but since pregnancy my skin has looked especially terrible. I now have many scars and many stretched out looking pores, as well as a bumpy texture and fine lines. The worst area is the middle of my cheeks as shown in the picture. I am taking Accutane currently and plan to get cheek fillers. In addition to these, once done Accutane, can any lasers/microneedling help? Also, can this be improved?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach will give the most improvement. I recommend lasers, microneedling/PRP, Peels like Cosmelan, enlighten and aerify along with dermarolling (EmerageSkin roller with anteage AERIFY MD ampules weekly, I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

Microneedling is very good at helping with improving skin texture, such as large pores and small scars. I do always caveat to patients that it will take time; these are not SURGICAL therapies, so you should not expect that these will "erase overnight". Sometimes you need multiple treatments too -- I generally recommend 3-4 sessions about 1 month apart before you decide whether it's done something or not. Good luck!

Richard Ort, MD · Answer

It’s hard to say from the single photo, but you might benefit from TCA CROSS done in expert hands. 
Best,
Dr. Ort

What can I do to correct scars and stretched pores from picking? Now on Accutane, will laser or microneedling help? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: How to treat scars and enlarged pores

Answer: How to treat scars and enlarged pores

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What can I do to correct scars and stretched pores from picking? Now on Accutane, will laser or microneedling help? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: How to treat scars and enlarged pores

Answer: How to treat scars and enlarged pores

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.