Best way to remove a circular pitted chicken pox scar? (Photo)

Question

I've had this circular chicken pox scar (see pictures) next to my nose since I was a baby. I received 2 laser treatments when I was younger but each treatment cost $300 and I wasn't seeing the improvement I hoped for. I have done a lot of research online and have found vastly different recommendations for my type of scar. What would be the best way to fade/remove my scar? punch excision? microdermabrasion? a filler? Should I consult a surgeon or a dermatologist?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Chickenpox scars can be improved with a combination approach of subcision, lasers and fillers. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  Not all "lasers" are the same.  It would be helpful to know what you already tried.  We have successfully treated several patient's scars with either the PicoSure FOCUS laser at 755nm or ICON Fractional 1540nm.  You have more swelling with the 1540, but it's such a small area that it shouldn't be a problem.  If you were an existing patient in our office, we would probably treat this for a very nominal charge.  It's only 3-10 pulses on the laser.  I would recommend checking with a doctor's office in your area that several different treatment options.  You can probably negotiate a nominal charge for such a small area.  They may ask you to sign a photo release for the discount.  Best of luck.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Facial scars can be quite annoying and difficult to remove completely.
Scars go deeper, so you need deeper treatments. Microneedling with prp in a treatment series may begin to blend and heal through the old divoting and discolored scars.
Choose an expert. Best. Dr Brecht

Best way to remove a circular pitted chicken pox scar? (Photo)

Answers (4)