Dermal fillers for Acne Scars
Acne is a common condition that touches most people’s lives at some time. For many patients the acne condition itself can be relatively short lived. However, this condition can leave residual scarring and redness that can make a person feel self-conscious and anxious.
Historically, while acne scarring has been quite difficult to treat, modern day dermatological treatments mean that there is a wealth of techniques and procedures open to the individual. One modern technique that is used to treat acne scarring is through the use of dermal fillers. A dermal filler is a soft tissue filler that is injected into the skin and is designed to help give the skin a smoother appearance by ‘filling’ in the gaps left by collagen depletion which is the side effect from acne that causes the scarring. Typically dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acids such as Restylane, Juvederm or Belotero.
As the name suggests, the dermal filler is used to ‘fill’ depressions and is best suited for individuals with atrophic scars. Many ice pick, box car and even rolling scars can be improved.
Before & After: eMatrix for acne treatment
Other forms of acne scars that are raised above the surface of the skin (hypertrophic) cannot be treated with dermal fillers, but there are a wide range of other techniques that are available to individuals with this form of acne scarring such as cortisone injections, eMatrix or V-Beam Laser. The best course of action in these circumstances is to discuss the options with Dr.Michele S. Green. She can provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan for your acne, whether it be Jessens, Microneedling, Chemical Peels or other therapy.
It should be noted that dermal fillers are not a permanent solution to acne scars. However, results from the dermal filler will last between six months and one year, and over time will enable your own natural collagen to be produced. Some new fillers such as Bellafill are more long-term in fact. In most cases it is possible to use dermal fillers along with other treatments such as laser resurfacing to maximize the collagen regeneration in the skin. In this way, using a two-step combination approach maximizes the benefits and the new collagen formation.
One of the benefits of using dermal fillers is that they are compatible with all skin types and that there is virtually no down time after the procedure has taken place. A patient may experience some minor redness around the treatment area but this should clear up in a few days. One key benefit is that the results are immediate with the acne scars improved in minutes.
Find out more about dermal filler injections and discover how you can improve the look of previous acne scarring. Contact board certified acne dermatologist Dr. Michele S. Green online for additional information such as treatment costs, and to schedule an appointment to see if you are the right fit for dermal fillers – or call 212 535 3088 today.