Can TCA Cross Be Used to Shrink Enlarged Pores?

Question

I have a few randomly located enlarged pores on my face (one right above the eyebrow and one on my upper cheek about 1.5 inches below my eye), as well as a few on my nose that kind of look like mini-ice pick scars.Can TCA cross be used to make them smaller? Does it matter if it is an actual pore or if it is in fact a tiny ice pick scar? Would it be better to do a tiny punch excision?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

If the problem is a deep ice pick scar then punch excision is better
Few months later I would recommend a TCA peels to soften the scars of the puch excision. Punch excision needs to be closed

Lee Robinson, MD (retired) · Answer

TCA peel can help pores appear smaller, however if the pores you are speaking of are similar to a small hole, I would recommend consulting with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who may recommend a punch hole excision.

Can TCA Cross Be Used to Shrink Enlarged Pores?

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Can TCA Cross Be Used to Shrink Enlarged Pores?

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