Acne Blemishes and Scars

ABOUT ACNE SCAR TREATMENT

Anyone who suffers from significant acne scarring knows that it can cause feelings of self-consciousness and frustration. Fortunately, there are several wonderful techniques and technologies available today that can help. First, it is helpful to understand what causes acne scars.

Acne scars are the result of damage to your pores from built-up bacteria, oils, and dead skin cells. When the buildup reaches a certain point, your skin becomes unable to clear itself, leading to deep, permanent lesions. There are two main types of acne scars: hypertrophic (keloid scars) and atrophic (depressed scars). Hypertrophic scars appear as raised tissue and are caused by excess collagen produced by your body in its attempt to heal a wound, in this case, your acne.

Atrophic scars are basically the opposite — they appear due to loss of tissue after acne has healed. They can appear in various shapes and sizes, including a V shape, a rectangular shape, or sort of round. At Platinum Surgery, we offer many different types of treatment for acne scarring, depending on your specific case. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Abdullahi Adan today to find out how acne scar treatment can renew the texture and appearance of your skin.

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR
ACNE SCAR TREATMENT

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR ACNE SCAR TREATMENT

Virtually anyone with acne scarring can be a candidate for one or more types of scar treatment. Like with most treatments and procedures, the best candidates will be in general good health with good circulation and should be nonsmokers. Acne scar treatments can help provide:

Less need or desire for concealer and makeup
Smoother, clearer skin texture
Glowing, healthier-looking skin
Boosted self-confidence

WHAT TO EXPECT FOLLOWING ACNE SCAR TREATMENT

The recovery time and results of acne scar treatments will be different for each patient, depending on which technique or techniques were used, as well as the degree of scarring.

Surgical punch procedures on their own usually have very little downtime, although you will most likely need to wear a dressing over the wound for about a week.

C02 laser skin resurfacing has an initial healing period of about two weeks, but complete healing can take up to six weeks. Depending on the severity of your scarring, you may require more than one resurfacing session.
Radiofrequency microneedling typically will have 1-2 days of downtime. The skin may appear pink and slightly swollen, similar to if you spent too much time in the sun the day before.
Medical-grade chemical peels usually have a downtime of at least a week during which your skin will be peeling, fairly sore, and quite itchy. It is extremely important during this time to not pick at your skin and to follow Dr. Starkman’s at-home care instructions very carefully.
Injectable dermal fillers generally do not have any downtime at all. If anything, you might have some minor redness, swelling, or itching, but these should subside within just a few hours.

Ace Blemishes and Scars

Dotting the face, neck, back and chest, acne can be painful to live with. It affects all ages and skin types and can be resistant to treatment. But, worse than bulbous pustules and sensitive cysts on your skin, acne can scar, leaving you with visible reminders of your acne. If you’ve tried it all, we can help. Treat stubborn acne, erase scars, and feel confident in your own skin.

FAQ

How much does acne scar treatment cost?

The costs for your scar treatment will vary, depending upon which technique is used, the degree of your scarring, and how many areas you have treated. All of these issues will be talked over during your consultation with Dr. Abdullahi Adan, and he will be able to create the best plan for your specific case.Platinum Surgery accepts many types of payments and can also help you find low-interest financing to make your treatment more affordable.

Should I get a chemical peel or laser resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing and chemical peels both address surface imperfections, including acne scarring, by removing surface layers of skin so that healthier, smoother skin can grow back in its place. The biggest difference is that laser resurfacing uses heat and energy while a chemical peel uses a liquid or gel-like solution. A medical-grade chemical peel will typically go more deeply into the skin, which can produce more noticeable results. Dr. Abdullahi Adan will discuss both options with you at your consultation to help decide which technique is right for you.

Will my face hurt after a chemical peel?

Deep chemical peels, like those performed by Dr. Abdullahi Adan, generally cause redness, swelling, and intense itching afterward, though not significant pain. Your skin will likely feel like you’ve been sunburned, and you will need to use specific skin care products during your aftercare.

Is there any downtime associated with dermal injections?

After most types of dermal injectable fillers, you’ll be able to go right back to your normal day. You will need to avoid exercise and other strenuous activities for at least one day, however. A cold compress can minimize any slight bruising or swelling you might experience. We also recommend sleeping with your head propped up and avoiding touching your face for a few days to avoid pushing the filler into other areas.

How many acne scar treatments will I need?

Your number of treatments will depend on your degree of scarring and the technique used. If Dr. Starkman performs a surgical punch incision, you will likely only need one. Dermal filler results typically last from 6 – 18 months. Chemical peels and laser resurfacing results are very long-lasting, but you will probably need more than one session to get your best results. Dr. Abdullahi Adan will discuss how many sessions he estimates you will need during your consultation.