Q – What treatments are available for acne scarring?
Traditional treatments for acne scarring have included surgery, deep chemical peels, laser resurfacing and dermabrasion. While Dr. Buckingham may still combine chemical peeling and dermabrasion for more severe acne scarring, he achieves excellent results with less recovery time and fewer risks with fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. At the Buckingham Center, we utilize the Matrix Fractional CO2 laser.
Q – Who is the best candidate for an acne scar treatment?
Candidates for acne scar treatment are in good physical health and have realistic expectations for the improvement of acne scarring. Many patients benefit from fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing using the Matrix system. For acne scarring that is more severe, a combination of chemical peeling and dermabrasion may be appropriate. A private patient consultation with Dr. Buckingham is the best way to determine which acne scar treatment is right for you.
Q – What is Matrix Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing?
The Matrix Fractionated CO2 laser system is used to resurface the skin to improve acne scars as well as fine to moderate wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, and texture irregularities. Pulsing and pixelating lasers are used to damage the skin beneath the surface, thereby triggering the production of collagen. Compared to other traditional CO2 lasers, the Matrix Fractionated laser system allows for a much gentler treatment with less pain, less downtime, and fewer side effects.
Q – What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a procedure which uses a chemical solution to peel away the top layer of damaged skin. Different strengths of chemicals may be used depending on the condition being treated. Dr. Buckingham will combine the chemical peel with dermabrasion for the treatment of more severe acne scarring.
Q – What is dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a procedure which uses a high speed rotating brush to remove the top layer of skin. Dr. Buckingham will combine dermabrasion with a chemical peel to allow for more improvement and better blending with the surrounding skin.
Q – What can I expect during a consultation for acne scar treatment?
During your consultation for acne scar treatment, you will meet with Dr. Buckingham and he will perform a complete facial analysis which will allow him to determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs. He will also answer any questions or concerns that you may have.
Q – Where are acne scar treatments performed?
Dr. Buckingham performs fractionated laser resurfacing using the Matrix system in the office setting. When combining chemical peeling with dermabrasion for more severe acne scarring, the treatment is performed in an outpatient surgery center.
Q – What type of anesthesia is used for acne scar treatments?
The type of anesthesia used for the acne scar treatment will depend upon the particular procedure. In many cases, a topical anesthetic is all that is needed.
Q – What is the recovery like after acne scar treatments?
Recovery following fractionated CO2 laser therapy with the Matrix system may last anywhere from five to fourteen days depending on the depth and concentration of the treatment. Swelling may be present for one week after treatment, and redness for up to one month. The Matrix system allows for less pain, less downtime and fewer side effects compared to other traditional CO2 lasers.
Chemical peeling combined with dermabrasion involves a recovery period of about ten to fourteen days. During this time, patients may experience some redness and swelling, and a scab or crust may form on the treated area. Some discomfort may occur which can be relieved with medication.
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