CO2 laser and microneedling did nothing for cheek scars - what can I try next? (photos)

Question

I have been getting CO2 laser sessions, but they don't work. My dermatologist is not increasing intensity as it can cause complications. I got Micro-needling once and got a terrible breakout after it. So, if I get micro-needling, I will have to stop treatment. Now, I have no idea what to do. Please help me with this. Things I think I can do: 1. Punch excision and Subcision 2. Micro-needling with low-dose isotretinoin 3. High frequency of CO2 (2 weeks apart) 4. Fillers and Mesobotox

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Sorry for the waste of time and money,  but I'm not surprised by the lack of success with the lasers. I have been cautioning my regular followers for years that the expensive light and energy-based, "bells and whistles" gizmos out there are backed far more by device manufacturer marketing and social media hype than hard science. Subcision, for elevating and smoothing boxcar and rolling scars, and TCA CROSS, for ice pick scars and dilated pores, are a couple of simple, relatively inexpensive techniques,  each of which has a several decades' long track record of safety and efficacy in all skin types. Before wasting any more time and money on here-today-gone-tomorrow gizmos, you would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar specialist. Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For unique cases where a variety of modalities could be used to treat the condition, I would suggest an in-person or virtual consultation to develop a custom and effective treatment plan.  It is difficult to precisely define the best option without collecting the same information. I suggest reaching out to an expert for a consultation with surgical and non-surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

CO2 laser and microneedling did nothing for cheek scars - what can I try next? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Punch Excision

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CO2 laser and microneedling did nothing for cheek scars - what can I try next? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Punch Excision

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