Many treatments are available nowadays to reduce acne scar. In many cases, different types of scars appear together on the face, thus there is a need to combine different treatments to achieve the optimal result. Every treatment has its own unique advantage and strength and addresses the specific type of scar or underlying skin issue.

Fractional CO2 Laser

AcuPulse CO2 laser utilizes a very narrow laser microbeam to remove columns of tissue deep into the layers of the skin, leaving the adjacent untreated skin intact. This initiates a quick wound healing response and develops new collagen on the treated skin. The effect is skin is plump up from within and thus reducing the effects of scars, fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity. This laser significantly helps to improve and smooth all acne scars.

For acne scar treatment, usually 2-4 treatments at 4-8 weekly 6-12 monthly intervals are required. We have had patients who were very pleased with only 1 session of treatment. Post treatment, redness and microcrusts may last for 10-20 days and 3-5 days respectively. Sun avoidance is important after treatment. Topical medications will be prescribed to optimize the beneficial results of the treatment.

TCA CROSS

TCA CROSS stands for Tri-Chloracetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Scarring. It uses 80-100% TCA to improve the appearance of pore-like scars and acne scars that are either ice pick, punch out or box-like. TCA CROSS treatment is often repeated at 30-60 days apart and multiple sessions or combining with other treatment modality are recommended.

Scars Subcision

Acne scars are often stuck to some underlying fibrous-like scars. In scars subcision, a needle-blade is inserted from the edge of the scars into the base of the acne scars to cut and free the fibrous-like scars. Where necessary, Dr Wong will combine this procedure with other treatments to obtain optimum results.

Surgical Excision of Isolated Scars

This method is best suited to selected small and linear scars. Dr Wong will remove the scar surgically and re-join the normal skin. The skin will heal neatly into a less obvious scar. Best results are obtained when the scar is removed, and wound edges are brought together without tension.

ND-YAG Laser

For patients who are eager to improve the “acne marks” quickly, ND-YAG laser treatment is invaluable. Generally, two to five sessions of treatments will be sufficient to lighten or completely clear the hyperpigmented acne marks.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels remove the top layer of the skin with a medical-grade chemical acid to smooth depressed and superficial scars. The chemical acid is applied to the facial skin with a brush/gauze and different chemicals can be used to peel the skin to varying depth. To improve acne scar, medium depth peel like Obagi Blue peel is recommended.

Botulinum Toxin Injection

Acne scars around certain facial area are often accentuated by the underlying muscle contraction. Relaxing the muscle using Botox treatment will often soften the appearance of the scar in this area.

Fillers Injection

Fillers injection using hyaluronic acid can be used to raise sunken scars. The amount of fillers injected will vary with the size and firmness of the scar. Improvement is immediate but it’s not permanent. Continuous retreatment is required.