Fractional laser skin resurfacing is a highly effective and less aggressive skin care procedure aimed at rejuvenating the skin and getting rid of imperfections such as certain types of acne scars. The fractional technique involves the use of a range of precise micro-beams of laser to treat columns of skin rather than whole areas.

This technique makes the laser effect more dispersed, leading to less patient discomfort and shorter recovery. Risk of complications is mitigated and the procedure can be successfully used for a variety of skin treatments, including acne scars. Dr. Steven Zimmet is an accomplished dermatologist providing fractional skin resurfacing treatments to patients in Austin, TX and surrounding locations in this part of The Lone Star State.  

Fractional Resurfacing Technology

For more severe cases of acne scarring, Dr. Zimmet may recommend the Lumenis Ultrapulse CO2 laser (Active FX, Deep FX, Total FX) for fractionated ablative skin resurfacing. This is a stronger treatment approach that can help achieve more substantive reduction in the appearance of scars than non-ablative approaches. Face, neck and chest can be treated with ablative fractionated CO2 laser. The patient will typically go through a downtime of about five days with this treatment.

In cases where the patient wants to get rid of mild to moderate acne scars, Dr. Zimet may employ the ENDYMED™ 3DEEP fractional resurfacing method. This technology is based on radio frequency (RF) energy. The applicator will transmit RF energy pulses under the skin’s surface.

Controlled heating of the deep dermis will stimulate the fresh generation of collagen and support new skin growth. The patient will go through shorter treatment time and have a quicker recovery with this dermatology procedure.

How does fractional resurfacing work?

The fractional technique heats the skin in microscopic columns with microbeams of energy. This triggers the natural production of collagen fibers in a gentler way, without damaging the external skin layers. The skin is gradually volumized from within, resulting in filling of mild acne scars and depressions, and restoration of a smoother, more radiant looking facial skin.

Depending on the patient’s skin condition and their personal cosmetic needs, Dr. Zimmet will determine whether CO2 laser or RF technique may be more suited for a patient. The total number of treatment sessions will also vary from one patient to another. As a starting point, the patient may be recommended three treatments. Additional treatments may be required depending on the progress and results.

If the scars are more superficial in nature, they will usually diminish or even disappear after the first three treatments. However, some patients may need more time, particularly if the acne scars have been present for years. In such cases, the fibrotic tissue in the damaged skin will need more treatments to disintegrate, but usually no more than six would be necessary.

Recovery

Each treatment session of fractional resurfacing may last for about one hour. If the treatment is non-ablative, the patient will go through minimal discomfort and will have quick recovery. Redness may last for about five days, but the patient can return to work the next day.

Experienced and profound dermatologist Dr. Zimmet receives patients from Austin, TX and nearby areas for fractional resurfacing for acne scars.

If you would like to learn more about the procedures and treatments by Austin TX Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Steven Zimmet, please contact us at (512) 485-7700.

Many acne patients suffer from a wide variation of acne scarring. Some of the common types of acne scars include ice pick scars, rolling scars, boxcar scars, hypertonic scars, and keloid scars. Various non-surgical skin care procedures are available today to mitigate the effect of these acne scars on the face.

During the initial consultation, the treatment provider will discuss the most appropriate suitable option after evaluating the condition of the scars.

Dermal filler injections have been successfully used over the years as a simple and safe solution to reduce the appearance of certain types of acne scars.

These FDA approved filler gels are designed to plump the facial skin, which fills the depressions and mitigates the scarring. Dr. Steven Zimmet is an astute and proven dermatologist providing dermal fillers and other treatments for acne scarring to patients in Austin, TX, and surrounding communities and suburbs in this part of the state.

Specific Acne Scars

Dermal filler injections are an excellent treatment to potentially get rid of some acne scars, being particularly effective for rolling scars and certain less prominent boxcar scars. Rolling scars create an indentation in the skin, which appears like a wave because of its shallow depth and wide size.

Boxcar scars are quite similar to chicken pox scars and have well-defined, angular edges that make them look like a box. They produce an indentation in the skin and are commonly found on the cheeks or temples. Facial filler cosmetic dermatology treatments are safe and well-tolerated with successful results to fill the depressions associated with these scars. The loss of volume caused by these acne scars is effectively addressed with dermal fillers.

Types of Fillers

A number of dermal fillers are available today, and the patient can choose the most appropriate ones in consultation with the dermatologist.

The dose required for filling acne scars will also vary according to the patient’s scarring, overall facial anatomy, and their personal cosmetic goals. Hyaluronic acid based dermal fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane and Belotero Balance may be typically recommended by the treatment provider for acne scars.

Results with dermal filler injections will become visible almost immediately, and will continue to improve over the next several weeks and months. The modification and improvement occurs because the filler injection technique used by the provider will break up some scarred down bands. Furthermore, the filler gel will trigger fresh collagen production in the deeper layers, creating more sustainable facial volumizing over time.

Procedure

Once the dermatologist and the patient have determined which facial scars will be filled, the treatment process can begin. The provider will cleanse the affected area with an alcohol-based cleanser and may apply ice to the site before treatment. The filler gel will be injected with a fine needle and then gentle pressure with gauze will be applied.

Once all the targeted scars have been filled, the patient can review their facial appearance in the mirror. At this stage, the patient may point out if any additional scars are bothering them, which may also be filled. Dedicated and fantastic dermatologist Dr. Zimmet receives patients from Austin, TX, and nearby areas for dermal filler injections.

If you would like to learn more about the procedures and treatments by Austin TX Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Steven Zimmet, please contact us at (512) 485-7700.