Cosmetic Dermatologist introduces new acne scar treatments!!

Dr. Jeffrey Rapaport a cosmetic dermatologist in NJ (www.cosmeticskin.com) uses multiple treatments on each patient to successfully treat acne scars.

His "Multi-Lift Technique" exemplifies how important it is to treat each scar not with just one method but with with different modalities. This ensures an individualized approach to treatment with each patient for optimal success.

Subcision is a technique in which a depressed acne scar is lifted to the skin surface with a surgical instrument such as a tiny scalpel or needle. The deep portions of the scar are released and the surface elevates with the wound repair process. Several treatments are usually necessary and are performed under local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. Good for most kinds of scars……..

TCA CROSS TCA CROSS (chemical reconstruction of skin scars) is a method in which trichloracetic acid is used to spot treat each scar. During the treatment, a high concentration of Trichlorocetic acid is introduced just inside the scar. The resurfacing response that occurs inside the depression stimulates collagen production which eventually causes the scar to rise up and close in on itself.

Fillers (Restylane® & Silicone) Restylane® is the world's most popular filling agent. It is a clear, synthetic gel made with hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that is found throughout your body and carries little risk of allergic reaction. With its unique ability to combine with water, Restylane® remains in your skin for many months and can be used immediately.

Silicone is another filler commonly used on acne scars. It produces a permanent change in the skin. Both Restylane® and silicone are injected into acne scars to raise the surface of the skin and give a smoother look. Good for deeper scars.

Scar Excision: This surgical method of treatment uses a scapel or punch to remove the scar. Under local anesthesia, the scar is excised and the skin edges are then sutured together. Excision is typically recommended to patients with deep pitted scars that are not amendable to the TCA CROSS technique. Good for deeper scars. Longer recovery time

Laser Skin Resurfacing: Using the Erbium YAG or CO2 laser, the skin is removed layer by layer which eliminates the scar's surface. Simultaneously, heat produced from the laser tightens the skin, which helps to smooth out the scars. This method has a significant recovery time and is used less frequently since the advent of the Fraxel™ laser. Good for shallow imperfections rather than "ice pick" scarring

Chemical Peels Chemical peels are generally used to treat patients with very mild scarring. Different types of acid are applied to the skin in order to remove the top layer so that a smoother layer can surface. Chemical peels don't produce great results for patients who have severe scarring. Good for only mild scars