Would you recommend a Punch Excision? (photos)

Question

Scars on cheek. Have done subcision + filler twice. No result. 2 x Profractional and 1 x Smartxide. Still no results. Derm (and 1 PS) have suggested punch excision (not scalpel) but I'm terrified after reading horror stories about it and having another PS tell me that only about 30% of acne scar excisions succeed. Is this true? What else should I consider? TCA cross is also worrisome to me. Are my scars to broad for it? What about derma sanding? Please help me with my decision. Thanks!!!

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, punch excision should be reserved for ice pick scars. In particular ice pick scars that are less than 2 to 2.5 millimeters. The scars that you are displaying in the photos are saucer-shaped scars. They respond best to subcision and fillers. We have had some success combining subcision with micro needling and PRP. Multiple sessions may be needed. I advise that you go to a physician who is willing to show you pictures of before and after patients with similar type of scars. Good luck!

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

I personally would subscise again, then place a very superficial filler like Volbella or Restylane, over correct the scar by 5-10% then massage to push the filler down. Not a hard scar to fix, but technically challenging. This is how I would do it, others may approach this problem with surgery, followed by laser.Dr Davin LimLaser and aesthetic dermatologistBrisbane, Australia

Would you recommend a Punch Excision? (photos)

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Would you recommend a Punch Excision? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Punch Excision

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