What are my options for crater face/skin texture issues? (photo)

Question

I had IPL and noticed a change in texture afterward, so I am concerned about lasers. I already use Skinceuticals vitamin C and retinol. I follow a very healthy diet with ample omega 3’s and take a ton of high quality supplements to support skin. I protect my skin from the sun. I am slightly underweight but I had this issue before weight loss. I don’t love the way fillers look and I’m concerned about long term damage of collage production stimulated by injury. Do I have any options?

Aaron Gilson, DO · Answer

It sounds like you're on the right track. Have you tried Skinvive by Juvederm, a new treatment that's gaining popularity for its ability to enhance skin texture. This product is unique, being the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid injectable specifically tailored for the cheeks that doesn't add volume. 
The way Skinvive works is by drawing water into the skin, which significantly improves skin texture, making it smoother and more refined. The process involves small injections, made more comfortable with the inclusion of lidocaine. Many patients notice a marked improvement in the feel and appearance of their skin, with the effects typically lasting up to six months and is used in both men and women. 
For people looking to improve their skin's texture and feel from within, Skinvive could be an interesting option. It's always beneficial to be aware of new and effective treatments in skin care.

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

"I suggest reaching out to an expert for a formal consultation. I like to recommend my patients start a combination of facial rejuvenation treatments.

1) Skincare with products and microneedling/PRP
2) PDT Light Therapy a few times per month with growth factors
3) Laser treatments like Clear + Brilliant regularly and others (Fraxel, Moxi, Viva, CO2, Erbium, Halo) a few times per year
4) Sculptra injections a few times per year for collagen production with fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, Belotero, Radiesse, and/or Bellafill
5) Thermage/Ultherapy for yearly skin tightening with or without PDO or cone-based Instalift threads for lifting
6) Botox every 2 to 3 months to stop movement lines and prevent lines at rest

Best, Dr. Emer."

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

Laser treatments with no down time can usually be an option on most realistic patients anytime after the age of 18. It really depends on your skin, sun exposure and genetics. If lasers are something you aren't interested in there are still other options such as microneedling and chemical peels. It is best to talk to your surgeon because everybody has different techniques and options with various recovery times. This is still the best option for you, even though you’re concerned about it.

I strongly feel that it's very important to have an honest conversation with your surgeon about your particular situation, lifestyle, work environment and specifically which procedures you're having done so that you both have the most honest answer about your recovery and are realistic with expectations and results.

Surgery is not for everyone. In today's day and age, there are many nonsurgical options to consider and laser is the most dramatic result usually.

I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area that is a member of both ASPS & ASAPS and performs a lot of facelifts but also offers all the nonsurgical options such as injectables and laser treatments. Go over your concerns with them and make sure above all, you walk out of there with several options and an idea of the pros and cons to each of them as well as realistic expectations.

I hope this helps and wish you all the best in your surgery and event. If it does, please take a moment to up vote this answer on the “respond” button on the top right.

Lauren Boudreaux, DO, FAAD · Answer

First of all, I doubt IPL caused this unless you had burns. Often times (myself included!) we begin to notice things as we correct/address other problems. My point is, don't be scared of lasers but be sure to see someone who knows what they are doing!
I would start with microneedling and/or chemical peels, combined with medical-grade products to exfoliate and even out the texture of this skin. I get very nice results with this combo!

What are my options for crater face/skin texture issues? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Unhappy with texture of skin is understandable.

Answer: Unhappy with texture of skin is understandable.

Answer: Textural improvement

Answer: Textural improvement

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

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

What are my options for crater face/skin texture issues? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Unhappy with texture of skin is understandable.

Answer: Unhappy with texture of skin is understandable.

Answer: Textural improvement

Answer: Textural improvement

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

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