Looking for a solution for an enlarged pore that looks like a hole (Photo)

For many years I have been successfully employing TCA CROSS to treat deep, dilated pores, ice pick scars and unwanted piercing holes, in all locations, including around the lips and nose. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist with extensive experience in the use of TCA CROSS. Be wary if offered punch excision, since this can result in the subsequent development of stretch scars and tram track stitch marks, particularly in locations subject to a great deal of movement. Likewise, exercise a great deal of "buyer beware" caution when being hawked expensive fraxel laser or RF treatments, as the hard science to back up the use of these "bells and whistles" gizmos lags woefully behind the heavy marketing hype and social media buzz to promote them.
Hope this helps and best of luck.

Thank you for your question and for sharing your concern about the enlarged pore that appears as a "hole." There are several effective treatment options available, depending on your goals and tolerance for a small scar.

Minimally invasive procedures such as microneedling and ablative laser resurfacing (such as the CO₂ laser pin-hole technique) can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and atrophic scars. These treatments work by stimulating collagen production and remodeling the skin, often requiring multiple sessions for optimal results. Downtime is generally minimal with microneedling, while laser treatments may involve a few days of redness and swelling.

For deeper or persistent defects, minor surgical excision is an option. This involves removing the area and closing it with a small suture, which will leave a linear scar. Some patients find this preferable if they are comfortable with a small, predictable scar rather than a visible pore.

Other options, such as microdermabrasion or dermal fillers, may provide mild to moderate improvement, especially for more superficial or shallow pores.

In summary, microneedling and CO₂ laser treatments are the most effective minimally invasive options, while surgical excision is reserved for deeper or more persistent cases. Each approach has its own benefits and risks, including the possibility of a small scar or pigment change.

Hello, I’m Lauren, the aesthetic injector at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. Large pores are a common concern for patients, and finding the right treatment is important. PRP microneedling can be an excellent option for addressing enlarged pores.

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. 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 discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. I highly recommend treating the skin with a CO2 resurfacing laser. CO2 laser treatments utilizes carbon dioxide laser technology to precisely target the deep layers of the skin. This process stimulates the body's natural healing response, promoting the remodeling of scar tissue. By inducing controlled micro-damage, CO2 lasers encourage the production of new, healthy collagen and elastin fibers, which can significantly improve the appearance of deep scars. Also, CO2 lasers are known for their ability to resurface the skin, removing the damaged outer layers and smoothing out irregularities. This resurfacing effect helps to reduce the depth and prominence of deep scars, leading to a more even and refined skin texture.

I hope this helps and best of luck!

Microneedling can improve the appearance of an enlarged pore. The treatment is done in the office with no downtime. Several treatment sessions are often recommended in order to achieve the desired outcome. You can also consider having the pore surgically excised. This minor procedure is performed in the office.