Acne Scar Treatment in Toronto

Acne scars often affect the tissue of many layers of skin which is why they often appear to be set deep within the skin. The sunken indentations that mark the skin where acne once occurred are the result of visible damage to the epidermis and underlying tissue. In this type of acne scar, laser resurfacing can effectively improve the areas of skin affected by these unsightly marks. A second type of acne scar, often referred to as the ice pick scar due to its deep, thin appearance, can actually be removed from the skin. This ensures that an area of depth can become a smoother, more uniformly regular surface. An injectable filler that lasts indefinitely is then injected into any areas requiring some lift.

More Methods of Acne Scar Removal

If you are interested in acne scar removal, Dr. Ellis can brief you on the numerous procedures that are possible for you to undergo. Acne scar treatments can take anywhere from a few minutes and up to an hour plus to be performed. The scar removal processes may require more than one treatment, which is often the case with laser resurfacing. Anesthesia also differs from a combination of sedation and local anesthesia to a dose of general anesthesia. The acne scar removal treatments may be performed within the office of a plastic surgeon, a center for surgery, or a hospital. Acne scar procedures generally take place on an outpatient basis. Candidates for the surgery wish to minimize or eliminate the appearance of their acne scars, are healthy individuals and have an understanding of the procedure as well as its intended outcome.

Recovering from the available acne scar treatments differs depending on the method of removal you choose. Techniques also play a role in healing. Injectable fillers are minimally invasive and plump the skin underneath the scar. Injectable fillers generally cause a low level of pain, or none at all making recovery short or non-existent. The laser resurfacing technique may cause some discomfort as well as minimal swelling. Two weeks are usually needed for the healing process to take place with laser resurfacing patients. The sun should be avoided until Dr. Ellis or one of his colleagues approve sun exposure. It is usually another four to six weeks until a person is able to strain the body in activities such as exercise or sports.

There are risks associated with all medical procedures and surgeries, cosmetic or otherwise. The complications that may arise from acne scar removal differ from one procedure to the next but can include infection, scarring, an abnormal change of skin color, injury or burns (laser related), and cold sores. Injectable filler procedures are associated with fewer risks.