Laser resurfacing for Acne Scarring
Acne can result in many types of scarring. This can be in the form of:
Persistent redness and pigmentation
Textural changes on the skin surface, such as:
Rolled scarring
Icepick scarring
Boxcar scarring
Hypertrophic scarring
Dermatologists are the most highly trained specialists in the treatment of acne and acne scarring. It is of utmost importance that before acne scarring is treated any active inflammatory acne is treated first. When a patient no longer has inflammatory pimples present, a myriad of treatments options are available to significantly improve scarring, skin tone and texture.
Laser resurfacing is the most effective way to improve acne scarring, with ongoing improvements noticeable for more than 6 months after treatment. Laser resurfacing can also be combined with dermal fillers, punch excisions, chemical peels and/or forms of surgery to create an even skin tone.
Not only are Dermatologists experts in acne and acne scarring treatments, but patients treated by Dermatologists are eligible to receive a Medicare rebate if they have resurfacing laser treatments for their acne scarring.
All acne scarring treatments are performed by our Dermatologists.
Our acne scarring package includes:
Skin care regime prior to your laser resurfacing procedure
Post Laser skin-care kit
4 LED light treatments (on the day of the procedure, days 3, 5 and 14)
Complimentary review with your Dermatologist at Day 14
Results After 1 treatment of Resurfacing Carbon Dioxide Laser
Our client is receiving a laser resurfacing treatment. This is the most effective way to improve your skin tone and texture without surgery and injectables, while creating a youthful glow.
This procedure effectively treats scarring caused by moderate to severe acne.
How does eCO2 work for acne scarring?
Laser resurfacing with fractionated CO2 laser introduces micro-ablative columns that penetrate the skin surface, which promotes collagen regeneration. This lifts acne scars and improves skin tone, texture and colour. The micro-wounds produced by the laser energy are separated by healthy tissue. This allows for less down time than traditional CO2 lasers.
The eCO2 parameters can be adjusted to deliver treatments ranging from superficial to ultra-deep ablation. It is recommended that treatments be of moderate to deep ablation in order to effectively acne scarring.
What should I expect after laser resurfacing?
The recovery post eCO2 laser varies depending on the depth of ablation and energy settings used in the treatment. Treatments for acne scarring results in downtime of one to two weeks.
Immediately following treatment, you will experience some swelling and redness. If your doctor uses advanced modes during the procedure, the area treated will appear red for a longer period of time. In most cases, this will resolve in one to three weeks. During that time, with the exception of the first week post-treatment, you may apply makeup to tone down the redness.
Normal activities may be resumed, in most cases, within 5-7 days.
Your doctor will discuss your recommended post-procedure recovery and skin care with you at your treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
Every patient is unique. Most will significantly benefit from one moderate to deep ablative treatment. However, for some people who have severe acne scarring more treatments may be required over time.
Is the procedure painful?
Everyone experiences discomfort to varying degrees. You will need to arrive 60 minutes before your procedure to have a topical anaesthetic applied, which significantly reduces the discomfort associated with the procedure. HCDL has a private waiting room while the anaesthetic is taking effect.
In addition, ultra-chilled air (Zimmer fan) is used during the procedure for improved comfort. Administering injections of local anaesthetic is occasionally used for a select group of patients.
When will I see results?
Results can be seen as early as 2 weeks after treatment, once swelling and redness settle down. Ongoing improvements in skin texture, tone and colour can be seen for up to six months following treatment.
What will my treatment include?
Firstly, we recommend a consultation with one of our Dermatologists to discuss your goals and current skin care regime. If you continue to have inflammatory acne, your Dermatologist will also discuss your treatment options for this, moving forward. We recommend you obtain a referral from your GP, as acne scarring is a medical issue and you will be eligible for a medicare rebate.
Our acne scarring package includes a skin care regime prior to your laser resurfacing procedure, a post skin-care kit, 4 LED light treatments (on the day of the procedure, days 3, 5 and 14) and a complimentary review with your Dermatologist at Day 14.
All acne scarring treatments are performed by our Dermatologists.
How do I book in for treatment and what is the cost?
Book in for a consultation with one of our dermatologists. Your dermatologist will discuss your treatment goals with you during your consult. The results will vary depending on your age, degree of sun damage and skin type, as well as what parameters your doctor or nurse uses.
For prices please refer to our ‘Fees and Packages’.
For more information about this procedure, including costs for the consultation and treatment contact our team on (02) 4003 7693.