Best treatment for wide acne scars? (photos)

Question

Hello! I have ice pick and boxcar scars. I have improved most of the scars with tca cross, fraxel, Co2, and micro needling. But I have these big scars on my face that do not seem to improve with these methods. I have a couple of these scars on my cheek area and I'm wondering what the best treatment to improve these scars are? Would subcision work? Thank you!

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

​Acne requires a combination approach to get long-term improvement. I recommend a combination of Cosmelan, salt facials, peels, lasers, microneedling with PRP, blue light, radiofrequency and isotretinoin. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer​

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Subcision is a relatively simple and inexpensive method and a nearly three decade track record for safely and effectively elevating and smoothing indented (depressed, atrophic) scars from all causes, including chickenpox and acne rolling, saucer-shaped, and boxcar scars. I personally have been performing it for these purposes since 1994 with consistently gratifying results. Just make sure that you consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Best treatment for wide acne scars? (photos)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Subcision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Best treatment for wide acne scars? (photos)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Subcision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.