Should I have a punch excision for a dilated pore? (Photo)

Question

I am going through menopause and I am experiencing acne for the first time, since I was a teenager, my dermatologist prescribed azelaic acid and tretinoin creams. On my chin I have a dilated pore that I have had to extract daily for the past eight months. My dermatologist was hoping that I might get some healing from the creams, but if not, he could use a punch to remove the pore. I am concerned that the scar might look worse than the pore that never heals.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Punch-Excision, as the name clearly states, is an actual excision, except that instead of excising with a scalpel, a cookie cutter-like instrument is used. But it is an excision and in most cases requires stitching to close the resulting wound. In certain areas, subject to muscular tension or movement, punch excision, like any excision, can result in a stretch scar and even stitch tracks, which may prove more visible than the original problem that was present.
TCA CROSS, on the other hand, that I have been using for regularly for nearly a quarter of century is intended to treat ice pick scars and dilated pores, is a quick and easy treatment in which a strong acid is simply placed INSIDE the dilated pore to close it off. There is little to no downtime and most people have this done as a "lunchtime beauty fix," and return immediately to work.
I use this technique regularly for closing off even larger holes, such as unwanted piercing holes on ears, lips, belly button, etc. with gratifying results.
Before jumping into surgery, you would be wise to discuss this option with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist and best of luck.

Should I have a punch excision for a dilated pore? (Photo)

Answers (1)

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