Scar Removal

Acne which is of inflammatory type is commonly called zits or pimples. They usually leave scars since they go deeper than just the top layer of skin. These acne scars are more than often a blow towards an individual's self-esteem. However, thanks to science and the advancement of technology, scar removal is possible. With the correct scare treatment, you are able to have the chance to remove scars and live a more quality life. Having a good skin complexion is always an excellent way to boost one's confidence.

Acne scars are different according to individuals. This is due to the difference in climate. Hence, an individual may just have a shallow imperfection with his or her acne scars whereas another individual might have acne scars which are much deeper. As a whole, scar cream and scar gel might be recommended by your dermatologist if the scarring on your skin it not in a critical state. However, if necessary, your specialist will no doubt offer you with some useful advice and guide you to whichever method beneficial for your scar removal.

It is a blessing that the field regarding acne and acne scars has been extensively researched. Therefore, there is a quite a wide variety for scar treatment when it comes to acne. Usually, people would rather remove acne scars by simply applying scar cream or scar gel. However, the truth is that to remove scars, they have to be treated in a case-by-case basis. There is not an acne scar treatment which can miraculously work for each and every person. Do take the initiative to visit a dermatologist if your acne scars seem to be out of hand. You could also try to consult a cosmetic surgeon to properly seek treatment which is most suitable for your skin type. Do not just blatantly apply any type of scar cream and scar gel for those acne scars on your face. It might worsen the condition.

There are quite a number of different scar treatments available in the market. However, as mentioned earlier, it is best to have a talk with a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon before making any rash decisions. This is because there are even certain scar treatment which involves a combination of treatment to obtain the best and fastest results. Dermabrasion is a scar treatment whereby your skin will be frozen or numbed. After that, a machine will then delicately remove the damaged scarred skin to allow the growth of new and healthy skin. But do take note that microdermabrasion is different from this scar removal method, as microdermabrasion is not able to remove acne scars.

Chemical peel is a scar removal method whereby the top most layer of the skin is removed by applying acid or chemical. There are usually in the form of scar cream and scar gel. These, naturally gives place for a new and smoother skin to grow. Another way to remove scars would be the augmentation technique. In this procedure, the acne scars will be injected with a certain material. It either contains collagen or your own fat. The ultimate goal is to fill in the depression of the scarred skin.

Repairing scalp reductions

The potential problems caused by scalp reductions were recognized early in the history of their use, but it took several decades for these problems to be fully appreciated by the majority of hair restoration surgeons. Fortunately, scalp reductions have been performed with much less frequency in recent years. Scalp reductions have the undesirable effect of simultaneously causing cosmetic problems and depleting the donor supply needed to correct them.

Simply stated, they are a hair loss solution that alters the balance between supply and demand. They increase the demand for hair by producing scars in the top and crown that must be camouflaged, alter natural balding patterns and change hair direction, all without significantly adding coverage to the front of the scalp. They diminish supply by decreasing donor density and scalp laxity, thereby reducing the amount of hair available for the correction.

These problems can be partially addressed by the "hair conserving" technique of microscopic dissection, but after multiple scalp reductions, with even the best techniques, full correction is often not possible. Specific patterns of repair, such as the "hockey stick," used for treating patients who have low donor supply, are particularly useful in patients with low donor supply because of scalp reductions or scalp lifts.

Treatment of acne scarring

Despite the advent of isotretinoin more than 20 years ago, many patients still present with acne scarring. Because of recent technologic advances and the development of creative techniques by today's cosmetic surgeons, there has never been more hope or options for these patients. This article is designed to inform primary care clinicians about the advances that have been made in the treatment of acne scarring, so that they can better advice patients and provide appropriate referrals. It will begin by reviewing the types of acne scarring patients may have and highlighting important considerations, such as the patient's skin type.

The article will then summarize the different procedures that can be offered to patients: dermabrasion; microdermabrasion; laser resurfacing; chemical peeling; subcision; soft tissue augmentation; suture-assisted resurfacing; and punch elevation, punch excision, and punch grafting. These techniques require advanced dermatologic surgical skill and full knowledge of their risks and benefits, of which types of acne scars respond best to which modality, and of how different skin types may respond.

Acne is the most common cause of facial scar in the world.1 Patients with acne scars are often frustrated by their attempts to mask their appearance. Makeup may collect around the rim of widened "saucerlike" indentations and actually make the scars more noticeable. The technique of scar correction will be dictated by the type(s) of scarring present and the patient profile.

The number of scars is also important. For example, a few atrophic scars may be treated with a local injectable filler substance, whereas a large area of scarring may require a more invasive resurfacing procedure. Additional considerations include the patient's budget, expectations, and Fitzpatrick skin type. Patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV, V, and VI (typically, Asians, Hispanics, and blacks, respectively) may not be good candidates for certain resurfacing procedures, given the risk of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

It cannot be overstated that the patient and clinician must have realistic expectations when considering scar correction techniques. Because of acne scarring, a patient may have been suffering for many years and may often feel tormented, self-conscious, or depressed, or may even be more seriously disturbed. These powerful emotions can result in low self-esteem and unrealistic hopes for the procedure. Any corrective procedure helps acne scarring, but it does not give the patient perfectly smooth skin.

The pain after surgeon

The amount of pain experienced varies from person to person, and depends on the method used. In general, more extensive procedures can give better correction of scars, but at the cost of greater operating time, more risk, longer swelling, slower recovery, and greater cost. You should discuss your goals, budget, and pain tolerance with your surgeon in order to help him/her determine the procedure, or combination of procedures, that will produce the best results for you.

Dermabrasion Although there is some bleeding during this procedure, there is not a much pain during the procedure itself, which is usually performed under local anesthesia that is injected or sprayed on to skin.

Vascular laser treatments may be slightly uncomfortable. As mentioned earlier, the sensation associated with the treatment is that of a rubber band snapping on the skin. A cold compress, such as frozen Aloe Vera gel, may be applied during the procedure.

Laser skin resurfacing – Most likely, you’ll be awake during the procedure, and feel minimal discomfort. Most doctors use a local anesthesia or a local anesthesia with a sedative. This is similar to the anesthesia used by dentists.

Silicone gel sheets involve little or no discomfort.

Skin grafts, punch grafts and flap surgeries are performed under general anesthesia.

Steroid applications and injections and collagen injections – You will feel the pin prick of the needle and possibly pressure when the fluid enters the skin.

Tissue Expansion may be slightly uncomfortable. The surgery is often done under local anesthesia.

Z-plasty and related techniques are done under a local anesthetic.

Dermatology option

Historically, dermatologic surgeons have been the pioneers and leaders in the field of cosmetic and medically necessary skin surgery. In fact, the science of many of the cosmetic surgery procedures and skin cancer treatments performed today were either originated or enhanced by dermatologic surgeons.

For example, these skin surgery experts invented laser surgery for birthmarks, liposuction using local anesthesia, hair transplantation, the use of many filler substances, most chemical peeling treatments, botulinum toxin type A therapy, laser hair removal, laser resurfacing for wrinkles, many leg vein treatments, microdermabrasion and more.

Laser skin resurfacing

Laser Skin Resurfacing You may experience some swelling and discomfort. Cold packs are usually recommended to reduce the swelling.

If a bandage was applied after the surgery, it will be removed after approximately one week, and an ointment will then be applied. Some surgeons use a moisture retaining tape to bandage the treated area. Because this bandage must remain dry, you will not be able to shower until the bandages are removed.

If the treated area is not bandaged, you will need to wash the area several times every day. After each washing, you will need to apply an ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to the treated area. You will need to use caution in caring for the treated area. Scabs may form and last for about 10 days. If you are experiencing discomfort, an over-the-counter oral pain medication can be taken.