There are three basic types of atrophic acne scars that can occur on the face. Most of these are formed by collateral damage caused by cystic acne breakouts. If the inflammation persists, collagen within the dermis is lost permanently, leaving behind an atrophic acne scar.
 
Treatment of atrophic acne scars begins with an assessment of your skin, with particular emphasis placed on the morphology of the acne scars. Atrophic scars are usually associated with a loss of collagen matrix within the dermis. Dermatologists and plastic surgeons employ treatments that can restore collagen to the skin and help re-contour lost dermal integrity.
 
The three basic types of atrophic scars include: icepick scars, boxcar scars, and rolling scars. Ice-pick scars usually have a high depth-to-width ratio, making them deeply embedded within the skin. These scars respond to treatments that close the defect on the skin surface and build collagen so that the skin becomes more evenly contoured. We use a technique known as TCA-Cross in which a caustic acid medicine is gently instilled into an acne scar to stimulate wound closure and even out the contour. Dr. Karamanoukian may also include fractional laser to help restore skin quality and improve rolling scars that are found in association with icepick scars.
 
Rolling atrophic acne scars are deep and often occur in clusters. These scars have deep pits within the skin and have soft edges that gently roll out of the scar. If you look at the skin underneath ambient light, you will likely see an uneven undulating pattern of skin. These scars respond very well to combination therapy including fractional laser, fillers, RF laser, Morpheus 8, subcision treatment, fillers, and acne scar surgery.
 
Boxcar atrophic acne scars are similar to rolling scars but the main difference is that the boxcar scars have a much sharper edge on their border. These scars are more jagged and defined when compared to rolling scars. Much like rolling scars, boxcar scars respond very well to collagen-stimulating treatments such as Morpheus 8, fractional RF, fractional laser, ablative laser, subcision, fillers, and acne scar surgery.
 
It is always important to seek the treatment of an expert in the field. Our office is located in Los Angeles and we represent the top ranked scar treatment center. Learn about the many different ways we can improve your skin quality and tone. Acne scars can be improved with lasers, RF treatments, and injectables. Schedule an appointment today by calling (310) 998-5533.
 
Kare Plastic Surgery
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
804 7^th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
(310) 998-5533