Laser acne scar treatments have many advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include the ability to influence the collagen remodeling without any invasive procedures and comparatively shorter downtime compared to other surgical acne scar treatment modalities.
Limitations and Side Effects of Laser Acne Scar Treatments
The acne laser scar treatment is an expensive procedure and is not covered by insurance. Hence it is not an affordable option for many patients. Non-ablative lasers are usually ineffective in medium depth and deep acne scars.
- The common side effects of ablative lasers in acne scar treatment include redness, swelling, infection, acne or milia formation and color changes, including pigmentation or leucoderma.
- Frank burns may occur in hypersensitive individuals, especially those who have been using retinoids. This can result in worsening of the scar. Sun sensitivity is another common issue that has to be tackled.
What are the Precautions to be Taken if You are Going for the Acne Laser Scar Treatment?
Certain precautions will ensure that you get the value for money with the least amount of post laser complications:
- It is advisable to investigate the experience and training of the cosmetologist or dermatologist before fixing an appointment for the laser surgery. What type of laser do they use? Is it effective in your particular type of acne scars?
- Inquire about the downtime of the laser surgery. If you have an important public function or outing coming within one month, it is better to postpone the surgery.
- Stop all peeling agents and topical retinoids at least two weeks before the laser surgery.
- It is better to go in for laser surgery of the acne scars at least two to three weeks after stopping oral isotretinoin.
- Avoid laser treatment of scars in the presence of active, inflamed acne lesions.
- After the procedure, avoid direct sun exposure for two to three days. For the next few weeks, apply sun screens while going out.
Laser treatment for acne scars is very useful in improving the facial features and the quality of life of the afflicted. To be aware of the common adverse effects and limitations of the laser acne scar surgery will be beneficial for the patient so as to take informed decisions regarding the treatment options available.
Laser Acne Scar Treatment Limitations and Side Effects: Related Articles
- Laser Treatment for Acne Scars: Lasers to Get Rid of Scarring Caused by the Pimples. Lasers act in different ways to improve the acne scarring, like resurfacing and soft tissue augmentation.
- Acne Scar Treatment: Management of the Scarring Caused by Pimples. Acne scar treatment depends upon the depth and extent of scarring and the type of the pimple scars.
- Acne Scar Surgical Treatment: Cosmetic Acne Scars Removal. There are a number of effective surgical and cosmetic treatment options for acne scar removal.
Sources:
- Diane T, Gollnick H et al. New insights into the management of acne: An update from the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne Group. J Am Acad Dermatol, 2009; 60:S1-50.
- Simpson NB & Cunliffe WJ. Disorders of the Sebaceous Glands in Rook’s Textbook of Dermatology. 2004; 7: 43.1-43.75.
Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purposes only so that patients are aware of the options available. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your doctor. If you do so, Dr.Hanish Babu, MD or Suite101 will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purposes only.
Hanish Babu - Dr.Hanish Babu, MD is a dermatologist and a feature writer on Suite101.com with more than 200 articles related to skin diseases on the ...
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