Acne scar management targets the structural changes beneath and within the skin that cause depressions and uneven texture.
Treatment Options for Acne Scars at Medaesthetics:
Fractional CO₂ Laser Resurfacing
Fractional CO₂ laser treatment creates controlled microscopic zones of injury within the skin. The healing response stimulates collagen remodelling and may improve the appearance of selected depressed scars, uneven texture and scar edges.
The treatment settings and coverage are determined by the clinical assessment, skin type and anticipated recovery period.
Subcision
Subcision is a minor procedure that releases fibrous bands beneath selected depressed scars. These bands can tether the skin downwards, contributing to an uneven surface.
By releasing the attachments, the procedure may allow the depressed area to lift. It is particularly considered for suitable rolling scars and may be combined with other treatments where clinically appropriate.
Micro Fat Grafting
Micro fat grafting involves harvesting a small amount of the patient’s own fat, processing it and placing it into selected areas of tissue deficiency.
It may be considered when acne scarring is associated with localised volume loss or contour irregularities. Suitability depends on the distribution of the scars, available donor tissue and individual clinical factors.
TCA CROSS (50%, 80%, 100%)
TCA CROSS is a focal chemical reconstruction technique in which a clinician applies a chemical solution to selected scars, commonly narrow ice-pick scars.
The controlled response encourages collagen remodelling within the treated area. Several sessions may be needed, and treatment requires careful selection because irritation and changes in pigmentation can occur.
Minor Scar Excision
Selected deep, well-defined scars may be assessed for minor surgical revision. This involves removing the scar tissue and closing the area, where appropriate.
Scar excision creates a new surgical wound and may leave a linear scar. It is considered only when the expected benefits, limitations and risks are appropriate for the individual.
Combination Treatment Planning
Acne scars frequently have more than one underlying feature. For example, a patient may have tethered rolling scars alongside narrow ice-pick scars and broader areas of uneven texture.
In these circumstances, a combination approach may be considered. Depending on the clinical findings, this could involve subcision, TCA-Cross, fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing and micro fat grafting.
Treatments may be performed in stages rather than all at once. The sequence and interval between sessions depend on healing, skin response and the specific procedures selected. We discuss the rationale, expected limitations, alternatives, potential risks and likely recovery requirements before proceeding.