Acne Scaring (Fractional Resurfacing)

When inflammation from pimples damages the underlying skin tissue, an acne scar will form, compromising the complexion and causing undue self-consciousness for the patient. Dr. Joshua Korman in the greater Bay Area has a wealth of cutting-edge techniques at his disposal to revise acne scars and create smooth, blemish-free skin.

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Why Choose Korman Plastic Surgery?

Dr. Joshua Korman is an internationally recognized, board-certified cosmetic expert who has delivered outstanding results for over two decades. He has hundreds of five-star reviews from patients and was named a “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly for seven years in a row. Dr. Korman is a frequently requested authority appearing on popular mainstream media outlets such as “20/20” and CNN and was included on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons. After obtaining his bachelor’s and medical degrees from Cornell University – and graduating at the top of his class (Alpha Omega Alpha) – Dr. Korman continued to refine his talents with elite plastic surgery education at Stanford. His Fellowship training was undergone at Canniesburn Hospital in Glasgow, Scotland, and in Miami, Florida. Today, Dr. Korman serves as Adjunct Clinical Professor of Surgery at Stanford University’s School of Medicine where he helps to shape the brightest scientific minds of tomorrow. He is proud to offer exceptional results and concierge care for patients in and beyond Mountain View, San Jose, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Los Altos.

What Is Acne?

Acne is a common skin disorder that appears as inflamed lesions around the facial hair follicles and sebaceous glands. The glands secrete sebum to keep the skin moisturized but clogged glands can result in the formation of pustules and cysts. If acne is treated early and by a trained professional, it can help to minimize the scarring that can be so unsightly.

What Is An Acne Scar?

While there are over ten different types of acne scars (including ice pick scars, hypertrophic scars, keloid scars, linear scars, boxcar scars, tethered scars, atrophic scars, and rolling scars), they all cause cosmetic distress to some degree. Knowing and understanding the subtypes of acne scars is important when it comes to providing a powerful and success-oriented solution. In general, the body initiates a wound-healing response to a scar.

If too little collagen is produced, then the scar will appear as a depression in the skin. If too much collagen is produced, the scar will appear raised. Atrophic scars, or depressions, are the most common type of acne scars. While acne scars are considered permanent, their appearance can be greatly improved through cutting-edge fractional resurfacing, performed with authority and precision by Dr. Korman in the greater Bay Area.

What Is Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a trusted and popular method of scar revision in which only a “fraction” of the skin is addressed, resulting in minimal side effects or downtime when compared to ablative laser therapy. Fractional laser treatment is an excellent solution for acne scars because the controlled thermal heating can boost collagen growth to remodel the appearance of the scar from within.

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Which Kind Of Acne Scar Types Can Be Treated With A Fractional Laser?

Fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing is ideal for addressing rolling scars and boxcar scars. The laser energy triggers the fibroblast in the dermis to enhance collagen production, which remodels the skin tissue by creating brand-new collagen fibers. Tethered scars are best addressed through subcision, another state-of-the-art acne scar treatment.

What Is The First Step With Acne Scar Treatment?

The first step involves a private consultation with Dr. Korman and his knowledgeable team to analyze the skin and identify which type of acne scars are present. Special lighting will show both the top and bottom of the scar, allowing for the best treatment approach to be curated. Every acne scar treatment is highly customized and tailored to the individual’s needs and goals.

What Can I Expect During Treatment?

Depending on the extent of the patient’s scarring, fractional laser sessions usually take fewer than 30 minutes to complete. An eye shield is placed beforehand to protect the eyes and the skin is first numbed with a topical anesthetic. The laser applicator is then moved across the skin, delivering blemish-erasing energy to the dermis. Most patients feel minimal discomfort during their sessions.

What Is The Downtime After Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy?

After fractional laser therapy for acne scarring, Dr. Korman will provide a detailed aftercare plan as well as pain medications to help control any lingering discomfort. Mild redness and swelling may occur, lasting several days. Patients can undergo follow-up sessions spaced at least six weeks apart.

Acne Scaring FAQ

Is acne scarring treatment with a fractional laser painful?

How effective is fractional CO2 laser in improving acne scars?

When will I see results after my laser treatment?

Is acne scarring treatment with a fractional laser painful?

Fractional CO2 laser treatment comes with minimal discomfort. Prior to your session, the skin will be numbed with a topical anesthetic, ensuring your peace of mind. Most patients rate fractional laser therapy as a 2 out of 10 on the pain scale.

How effective is fractional CO2 laser in improving acne scars?

Improvement is gradual after each treatment, as this gives the body time to produce more collagen that will remodel the appearance of the scars. While scars may not fade 100%, they can still be revised to look almost unnoticeable.

When will I see results after my laser treatment?

Because it can take time for collagen renewal to become visible, full results typically emerge after 6-8 months, with improvement continuing over the course of one year.

Acne Scaring (Fractional Resurfacing)

Why Choose Korman Plastic Surgery?

What Is Acne?

What Is An Acne Scar?

What Is Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Schedule Your Consultation

Which Kind Of Acne Scar Types Can Be Treated With A Fractional Laser?

What Is The First Step With Acne Scar Treatment?

What Can I Expect During Treatment?

What Is The Downtime After Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy?

Acne Scaring FAQ

Is acne scarring treatment with a fractional laser painful?

How effective is fractional CO2 laser in improving acne scars?

When will I see results after my laser treatment?

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