Acne Scar Surgery

Our dermatologist offers additional acne scar treatments if surgery isn’t right for you. If you want to improve the appearance of your skin without scar revision, talk to our dermatologist.

After getting acne scar revision done, you will want to avoid new acne scars as much as possible. You can do this by avoiding popping your pimples, wearing sunscreen, treating your breakouts, and keeping your skin moisturized. 

There are several surgical options to reduce acne scars, depending on the type and severity of the scarring. Subcision is a common procedure where a needle is inserted under the skin to break up scar tissue, encouraging new collagen growth. The surgeon uses punch excision for deep scars, in which the scar is removed, and the skin is sutured back together. Punch grafting, which entails transferring skin grafts from another place, may be used to repair bigger scars. In certain instances, chemical peels, dermabrasion, microneedling, radio frequency microneeding  or laser resurfacing can be combined with surgery to create a smoother skin surface. Your dermatologist will recommend the best approach based on your skin type and type of scarring.

Candidates for acne scar surgery have moderate to severe scarring that doesn’t respond well to less invasive treatments like topical creams or chemical peels. Ideal candidates should have realistic expectations and be in good general health. Your skin must be free from active acne before surgery, as new breakouts can interfere with healing. Patients with deep, pitted, or raised scars typically benefit most from surgical treatments. A consultation with your dermatologist can help determine if surgery is the right option for you.

Before acne scar surgery, your dermatologist will evaluate your skin and discuss your medical history to ensure the procedure is safe. To reduce irritation, your healthcare provider may recommend discontinuing certain medications or skincare products, particularly those with retinoids or acids. It’s also important to avoid sun exposure before surgery, as sunburned skin can lead to complications during healing. On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable clothing and avoid applying makeup or skincare products to the treatment area. Your dermatologist will provide detailed instructions based on the specific procedure you’re undergoing.

Recovery from acne scar surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed. For a few days, you could feel red, swollen, or slightly uncomfortable; these symptoms can be reduced with chilled topical emollients and over-the-counter painkillers. It’s crucial to adhere to your dermatologist’s aftercare recommendations, including cleaning the affected region, using ointments as directed, and avoiding the sun. While full recovery will depend on the extent of the performed procedure.  It will be important to discuss your activity with your doctor before beginning any procedure.