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Acne scars are a very common concern for many of our patients. But you don’t have to simply deal with them. You can fade or even fully erase them with the help of our team at AW Plastic Surgery. We offer a wide range of treatment options that can be tailored to your unique skin needs.
What is Acne Scarring?
Acne scarring is exactly what it sounds like. It occurs after acne. Acne scars are the result of inflammation of acne blemishes. When the pore where the acne is swells and the pore wall breaks down, a scar forms. Some acne spots are small and the scars they create are very shallow and heal on their own, but others are larger and mar the skin for longer periods of time.
There are generally two forms of acne scars: the kind where there is a loss of tissue and is an indentation, and the type that is raised on the surface of the skin. The skin creates collagen to heal the wound, but when too much collagen is produced, it leads to a raised scar.
PATIENT TESTIMONIALS
Melissa T.
Dr. Wilson's attention to detail and commitment to excellence are evident in every aspect of his work. I HIGHLY recommend him! His nurses and staff are very attentive, responsive, and genuinely caring, making the recovery process smooth and stress-free. I'd give more than 5 stars if Google reviews let me.
Gale P.
Dr. Wilson called me personally after the surgery to see how I was doing! Who does that today? Anytime I needed to speak to someone in his office they called me back within minutes! His surgical skills are meticulous and he is a perfectionist! I couldn’t be happier.
Joe D.
AW Plastic Surgery is the best! From the minute I entered the office I felt comfortable and relaxed! Dr Anthony and his entire staff were informative and helpful, but more importantly, just great people. Truly an incredible experience from start to finish.
What Causes Acne Scarring?
The main cause of acne scarring is the body trying to repair the acne. The repair process involves the production of collagen, but when too much collagen is created or the scarring is trying to cover a loss of tissue, it can lead to an indented or raised acne scar. What your acne scar looks like will depend on the severity of the acne, your skin type, and the level of inflammation.
Different Types of Acne Scarring
While there are two main types of acne scarring (atrophic and hypertrophic), there are several different types of scarring under those two categories. The types of acne scarring include
- Ice pick: This type of acne scar resembles an ice pick. It’s wide at the top and narrows to a point as it goes deeper into the skin. It’s one of the most common forms, but also one of the most challenging to heal. They are often on the forehead or cheeks.
- Rolling: These scars are found on the cheeks and jaw and often make the skin look uneven or wavy.
- Boxcar: Boxcar scars are indents that have sharper edges and often go deep down into the skin. They are often on the cheeks or jaw.
- Keloids: Keloids are hypertrophic scars that raise off the skin. They occur when collagen overgrows in the skin. They can be found on the back, jaw, shoulders, and chest.
DR. ANTHONY WILSON
When you are seeking a qualified and talented plastic surgeon, look no further than board-certified Dr. Anthony Wilson with AW Plastic Surgery. Dr. Wilson has a passion for both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and the body. He takes deep satisfaction in giving his patients the tools they need to feel confident, whole, and beautiful, no matter where they are in their aesthetic journey.
MEET DR. WILSONTreatments for Acne Scarring
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are highly effective at treating acne scars, especially the indented scars. By injecting small amounts of dermal fillers under the skin, they can fill in the scars and give you the smoother and more even skin texture you’re looking for. While they don’t completely eliminate the scar, they can make it much less visible.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments
Laser treatments have become the go-to treatments for acne scars. By heating up the skin in the treatment area, the laser boosts collagen production and encourages new cell growth. New cell regrowth allows the scar to fully heal and ensure it fades completely. The type of laser used depends on the type of acne scar you’re struggling with and your skin type.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can also be very effective at addressing acne scars. By removing the top layer of the skin using a customized chemical solution, the peel triggers collagen production and new cell turnover. The new cells and collagen production will allow your scars to heal, and you will notice they fade or completely erase as your skin recovers from the peel.
Microneedling and Morpheus8
Microneedling works by using tiny needles to make micro-punctures in the skin. This process triggers the body’s natural healing process and increases collagen production, allowing the scars to heal and fade. On top of microneedling, Morpheus8 also uses radiofrequency energy to heat up the skin and further promote healing and cell renewal.
Schedule a Consultation
Tired of struggling with acne scars? Finally have the flawless skin you deserve with the help of the acne scarring treatments we offer at AW Plastic Surgery. Dr. Wilson will design a custom treatment plan that meets all your needs. For more information or to schedule a consultation today, call our Portsmouth, NH office or message us via our online contact form.
