True acne scars can only be improved by removing the top layers of the skin and letting the skin build a new surface combined with maximum collagen production from underneath. This can be achieved by CO2 laser resurfacing. The laser assures precise depth of abrasion, thereby minimizing complications that were common with dermabrasion (not microdermabrasion), such as permanent pigment change.
Deep pitted scars require punch grafts 4-6 weeks prior the laser procedure for maximum fill. Nowadays, fillers can be used to bolster scars. Often, acne scars may be preventable if acne treatment is started early.
Please feel free to use the blog below to share information about Acne Scars, or to ask Dr. Ringpfeil a question that might be of interest to others.
Do you use the Variable Pulse YAG Laser? And if not why not? Thanks for your input, it’s overwelming how much info. is out there!
The Variable Pulse ND:YAG Laser is not appropriate for treatment of acne scars.
I understand that the cosmetic technology available at this time must be overwhelming for a layperson. The choice of laser depends on the condition and skin type to be treated. It must also depend on the experience of the laser surgeon. Laser technology has made a tremendous impact on the ability to correct cosmetic concerns but is not without risks. A variable pulse Nd:YAG laser can be used for a host of conditions including hair reduction in all skin types, blood vessel treatment, redness reduction, skin rejuvenation, wrinkle correction and others. The downside of an Nd:YAG laser is its lack of specificity to treat some of the above conditions and most of the time, more efficient and specific lasers are used by advanced laser surgeons to achieve goals safely and quickly. A complimentary consultation with our aesthetician can help you better understand treatment options that are appropriate for you.
Dr. Ringpfeil,
I had cystic acne as a teenager that left me with pitted scars as well as overall uneven skin texture. There seem to be so many options. I need your assistance in locating a surgeon who has a great deal of experience with punch grafting and subcission. I will then come to you for the laser treatment. Do you use the Fraxel type laser system?
I greatly appreciate your help!
We perform punch grafts and subscision as needed several weeks prior to resurfacing by CO2 laser. In fact, I do not use Fraxel technology as it has not met expectations over the past 4 years since it entered the market even when 4-8 treatments were performed. The company that makes Fraxel has since developed a CO2-Fraxel combination system because Fraxel alone could not deliver results. However, we use the flagship of CO2 laser technology, the Ultra Pulse by Lumenis. Until today, the Ultra Pulse is still the most robust and versatile CO2 laser on the market, which is especially important for the outcome of scars.