Copyright © 2021 Somenek + Pittman MD. All rights reserved.
As much as you would like to forget your acne from early adulthood, your face remembers. Although your acne may be long gone, its scars can hang around.
You may notice that you have multiple types of scars on your own face.
Inflammation plays a leading role in the formation of scars. The inflammation caused by acne can impact the healing process and diminish the amount of helpful collagen that occurs naturally in skin. The result is the uneven, pitted (atrophic) appearance of acne scars. While scars may fade over time, they often don’t go away completely without help.
There are several treatments for acne scarring and these largely depend on the type of scar and how many there are.
Bellafill® fades acne scars by adding volume to them, bringing them to the level of the surrounding skin and keeping them there through 1 year. Bellafill® is the first and only injectable filler that’s FDA approved to treat acne scars.
Bellafill® reduces the look of acne scars in 2 ways. Its remarkably small polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres are suspended in a smooth collagen gel. The diameter of each microsphere is less than that of a human hair, so they’re not visible to the naked eye.
Bellafill® is able to provide an immediate improvement with no downtime associated with it. The PMMA microspheres form a supportive scaffold to allow your own collagen to build upon. As the gel breaks down over time, your collagen forms a foundation that adds volume to the acne scars providing a sustained improvement that can last. This is a great nonsurgical alternative that allows you to feel less self-conscious. It restores rather than just fills for natural-looking, enduring results.
Microneedling with Platelet Rich Plasma(PRP) has been shown to reduce the appearance of the acne scars. Over a series of 3 treatments, the microneedles stimulate collagen production and soften the appearance of atrophic acne scars. With the addition of PRP, this can speed the healing process as well as encourage collagen production by infusing vital growth factors into the scar regions. Dr. Somenek also incorporates radiofrequency technology into the microneedling treatment. This heats the underlying tissues simultaneously and further stimulates collagen production.
For individuals that have ice pick scars that are typically resistant to filler or other treatments, performing controlled punch excisions is a great alternative to permanently remove them. You are essentially exchanging a depressed scar for a well formed, almost imperceptible scar.. This is performed in the office under local anesthesia and requires no downtime.
Contact us to discuss which type of acne scar treatment in Washington DC is the best option for you.
Dr. Troy Pittman is an internationally recognized expert in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast and body. Dr. Pittman is Board-Certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and practices the full spectrum of Plastic Surgery procedures. He has specific interest and expertise in aesthetic surgery of the breast, including complex revision breast surgery.
Michael Somenek, M.D., is a facial plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C. whose practice offers specialized cosmetic and reconstructive services. In addition to his high levels of experience and talent, Dr. Somenek is also a compassionate and warm surgeon who finds personal fulfillment in helping patients rejuvenate their appearances and their confidence. Request a consultation online to meet personally with Dr. Somenek, or call our office to schedule a consultation.