Atrophic Scar Removal
When a portion of skin is damaged due to a skin formation like acne, chicken pox or mole removal, an indented scar can form in its place. These depressed scars are called atrophic scars, caused by loss of skin tissue that is not completely regenerated when it heals. While these types of scars tend to be small, they can be very noticeable when they occur on the face. Dr. John Anastasatos at Los Angeles Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills offers atrophic scar removal and treatments to improve the skin’s appearance.
When the skin is damaged, scar tissue will form. The damage spurs a generation of collagen that is used to help repair the skin and tissue. With atrophic scars, the skin tissue is not rebuilt to the same level. The scar tissue may be anchored to the deeper layers of skin or not enough collagen was produced. The indentations from severe acne breakouts or a mole removal can impact the surface and texture of the skin.
Types of Atrophic Scar and Treatments
There are different types of atrophic scars. The three most common are ice pick, boxcar and rolling scars. Ice pick scars are small and deep, usually from acne. Boxcar scars are a little larger and have defined borders with a flat bottom. Rolling scars have rounded edges with a wide indentation, similar to a crater.
Treatment depends on the type of atrophic scar and the results desired. Incision methods can remove ice pick scars, but there will be a flat scar left in its place. Dermal filler injections can hide ice pick scars, but the results are temporary and need to be repeated. Subcision can be used for boxcar scars, which uses a needle to raise the indented scar tissue. Dermabrasion and laser treatments may be used for stimulating collagen to smooth and reduce the appearance of most types of atrophic scars.
If you have depressed or indented scars that you want removed, contact us at Los Angeles Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills. We can schedule an atrophic scar consultation with Dr. Anastasatos to discuss the treatment options.