There are many treatments available for acne
scarring and this is a condition where it really is important to have
a consultation with Dr Szalay to determine the best option for your
particular situation. Sometimes a combination of treatments is necessary
and sometimes they need to be repeated, depending on the type and
severity of the scars.
Types
of Scars
Broadly speaking, there are 2 types of acne scars:
(a) Sunken
This is the most common type. Sunken scars can
also be divided into 2 categories:
(1) Normal
Surface - In this type of sunken scar, the actual
surface layer of skin over the scar is normal but the scar is sunken
because of shrinkage of the deep layer. This tends to cause an “undulating
valley” when viewed in profile. This type of scar needs to
be lifted with a filler, although it can also respond to a treatment
which stimulates collagen.
(2) Abnormal Surface
- In this type of sunken scar, the actual surface of the scar is
not normal skin but white scar tissue. The overall appearance is
somewhat “punched out” and it can be mild or deep.
If it is mild, it will respond to a surface abrading technique such
as Laser Resurfacing. Collagen Induction Therapy can also be helpful
by tightening the skin. If it is deep it may be best to excise and
suture the area.
(b) Raised
This scar is less common and can be more difficult
to treat. It is best assessed on an individual basis.
Techniques of Treatment
IPL Photofacial
This treatment by itself will not alter skin contour
irregularities but it can certainly improve red or brown marks caused
by acne. More about IPL...
Fillers
These are temporary or permanent and are
used to lift sunken areas. Both of these products can achieve excellent
results. With A Temporary Filler, usually 0.5ml is adequate although
sometimes 1ml will be required. With The Permanent Filler, usually
1ml is adequate, although some patients may require 2ml. More
about The Permanent Filler...
Collagen
Induction Therapy
Collagen induction therapy works by stimulating
new collagen which can make sunken scars more shallow by remodelling
them. It is more effective than Microdermabrasion, particularly
when used in combination with IPL More About
Collagen...
Erbium Laser
Resurfacing
Erbium Laser Resurfacing works by re contouring
skin surface irregularities. For medium depth scars, Erbium usually
achieves a 50% improvement. For more shallow scars, the improvement
is often greater. More about
Erbium...
Excision
and Suture
Some deep punched out scars are best treated by
cutting them out and suturing the skin together. This is performed
under local anaesthetic and is a walk in - walk out procedure. The
cost will depend on how many scars are being treated.
The Lift-Plus
For middle aged patients, The Lift-Plus is
an excellent technique of improving acne scars as well as wrinkles
by tightening the facial skin. More
about The Lift-Plus
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