Acne Scar Removal

Acne scar removal is broad term which encompasses the various methods for removing scarred skin tissue caused by acne deep within the skin. Acne may only be skin deep, but for some, it can cause much more than just physical distress. Teenagers with acne problems often feel embarrassed and ashamed. Adults may grow beards or put on added layers of makeup to hide the blemishes. For this reason, many teenagers and even adults look to acne scar removal.

The Types of Acne Scar Removal
Dermabrasion is a process by which the surgeon freezes the skin and then scrapes the scarred tissue with a high-speed rotary tool to remove the topmost layer. A new layer of healthy, rejuvenated skin regrows to replace the old tissue. The procedure is safe and the results are long-lasting.

Chemical peels are sometimes used in conjunction with dermabrasion for patients with severe scarring. The process involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing the tissue to peel off. Like dermabrasion, healthy new skin grows to replace the old. Consult your doctor if you think a chemical peel is right for you.

Punch techniques involve removing the scarred tissue. Punch excision involves putting the patient on a local anesthetic and cutting out the scar tissue with the use of a sharp tool. The wound is then sutured closed, and left to heal. Any scarring caused by the procedure should fade over time. Punch excision with graft replacement utilizes the same procedure as punch excision, but rather than suturing the wound closed, a graft is placed with skin typically taken from behind the ear. With punch elevation, the surgeon lifts the base of the excision to the surface of the skin, then attaches it with a suture or bonding agent.

Subcutaneous incision, or subcision, is performed under local anesthetic to break up the skin beneath the scar. A beveled needle is used to cut the strands that cause "rolling scars". The procedure does cause bleeding and bruising, but should heal within a week.

Laser resurfacing involves using precise lasers to burn the skin only as deep as the scar tissue. As the skin heals, it replaces the burnt layers of scarred tissue with newer skin. It is important to take proper care of the skin after undergoing a laser resurfacing procedure.

Dermal filler is material, usually various types of collagen, that is injected directly into the scar to raise it to surface skin level. Recurring treatments are a necessity, as dermal fillers do not produce permanent results.

As with all surgical procedures, take great care in choosing a medical professional you can trust. Ask for references and how often they perform the procedure. By doing proper research will ensure you get the desired results.