Will RF needling help? Fractora? Ice Pick Scars (Photo)

Question

Hello, I had a consultation with a reputed dermatologist clinic for my acne scars. I was told my scarring is mild to moderate. I went in knowing about subcision, which she said can help but really pushed Fractora. We decided on subcision without filler since she said she doesn’t think I need the filler, plus 3 rounds of Fractora, with the first the same day as my subcision. Is this a good plan? Also, I had read that subcision doesn’t work well without fillers. What do you think?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

At least from the photos, ice pick scars seem to be the predominant scars present. I have been performing subcision for acne scars since 1994 and can say that, while it has proven track record of safety and efficacy in all skin types, it is best reserved for wider-based scars, such as boxcar and rolling scars. TCA CROSS, which I have been performing for over twenty-three years and also has a proven track record for efficacy and safety in all skin types, is specifically indicated for ice pick scars. I applaud you for being skeptical of the expensive energy-based devices, like fraxel lasers and RF devices, as these "bells and whlste" are far more supported by marketing hype than hard science. (And, as an aside, subcision, was used for many, many years without fillers, with excellent results, although the addition of a filler may help to further stimulate new collagen and new elastic fiber). Hope this helps. Best of luck.

Will RF needling help? Fractora? Ice Pick Scars (Photo)

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