A hyfrecator created these deep indented scars. I was told filler won’t work in this area. Is there any hope to treat these?

Question

My dermatologist burned the side of my face with a hyfrecator. It has been 3 years, and I have two deep, atrophic, somewhat linear scars as a result. Is there any way to treat these? They have greatly affected my self-esteem.

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say how sorry I am that you are suffering so.  The good news is that a combination of two, quick, relatively simple and inexpensive approaches can go a long way to improving depressed, off-colored scars from any cause, include acne; prior surgery; infectious, like chicken pox or herpes zoster; and injury, such as in this instance.  Subcision works well for elevating and smoothing scars and subsequent medical microneedling for improving residual, superficial color and textural irregularities. Each of these procedures in experienced hands should take no more than a couple of minutes to be performed painlessly using only local anesthesia. To learn more about these tried and true techniques, you can check out the archives of RealSelf.com. Be cautious about claims for this or that relatively expensive, supposedly "nest big thing" bells and whistles fraxel laser or radiofrequency device as these appear to be far more backed by device manufacturer marketing hype than hard science. Be certain to consult with a board certified aesthetic physician and insist upon seeing his/her personal before and after photos before agreeing to proceed. Best of luck to you.

Eric T. Carniol, MD · Answer

It is important to have a detailed examination of these scars. For many deeper scars, fillers actually do quite well. For others, laser therapy can be quite helpful. Microneedling can be useful for very superficial issues, so would likely not be great for these areas. I wish you success! Feel free to contact me with any questions, even as you move forward with the process!Sincerely, Eric T. Carniol, MD

A hyfrecator created these deep indented scars. I was told filler won’t work in this area. Is there any hope to treat these?

Answers (3)

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