Fat Grafting For Acne Scars

FAT GRAFTING FOR ACNE SCARS:

Atrophic acne scars are typically categorized into three main types, ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars. They appear as depressions or indentations in the skin. Acne scars can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. Despite various treatments available, some scars, especially those that are deep and tethered, may require more advanced procedures to achieve optimal results. Two such effective treatments are subcision and fat grafting.

WHAT IS SUBCISION?

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure designed to treat depressed acne scars by breaking up the fibrous bands of tissue that tether the scar to the underlying skin layers. This process allows the skin to lift and smooth out, reducing the appearance of the scar. It involves the following steps:

  • Local anesthesia is administered to the treatment area to ensure patient comfort.
  • Needle Insertion: A special hypodermic needle is inserted through a puncture in the skin surface.
  • Breaking Fibrous Bands: The needle is maneuvered in a fanning motion beneath the scar to sever the fibrous bands that pull the skin down.
  • Healing and Collagen Formation: The controlled trauma induced by the needle stimulates the body’s natural healing process, promoting collagen production and further improving the skin’s texture over time.

WHAT IS FAT GRAFTING?

Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer or autologous fat injection, is a procedure that involves harvesting fat from one part of the patient’s body and injecting it into areas that need volume restoration. For acne scars, fat grafting helps fill in depressed areas and improve skin texture. The fat grafting process typically involves the following steps:

  • Harvesting Fat: Fat is harvested from donor areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks using liposuction.
  • Purification: The harvested fat is processed to remove impurities, ensuring only healthy fat cells are used for grafting. It is then separated into nanofat and microfat after processing.
  • Injection: The purified fat is carefully injected into the acne scars and surrounding areas to restore volume and smooth the skin’s surface.

COMBINING SUBCISION AND FAT GRAFTING FOR ACNE SCARS:

Combining subcision and fat grafting offers a synergistic effect, providing comprehensive treatment for atrophic acne scars. Subcision releases the tethered scar tissue, allowing the skin to lift, while fat grafting restores lost volume and enhances skin texture. This combination can lead to superior and more natural-looking results compared to either treatment alone and is Dr. Hirra Alavi’s preferred treatment.

HOW WILL SUBCISION HELP ME?

  • Minimally Invasive
  • Quick Procedure
  • Short Recovery Time
  • Long-Lasting Results

HOW WILL FAT GRAFTING HELP ME?

  • Natural Results
  • Improved scars
  • Improved Skin Quality
  • Long-Lasting Effects

BOOK A SUBCISION WITH FAT TRANSFER CONSULTATION WITH DR. HIRRA ALAVI:

Selecting a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving optimal results. Dr. Hirra Alavi has done hundreds of fat transfers during her surgical career and will be able to guide you about your suitability for the procedure. During your consultation with Dr. Hirra Alavi, you will have the chance to express your goals, expectations, and concerns with her. You will be asked about any existing medical conditions, medications, smoking, allergies and past surgeries, to evaluate your overall health and determine if you're a suitable candidate for facial fat transfer for acne scars or not. During the consultation, ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with her approach and communication style. A good surgeon will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide honest advice about what can be realistically achieved. Detailed information about fat transfer for acne scars including pre and post operative instructions, risks, possible complications and prescription will be provided to you.

Reach out to our clinic to schedule your consultation today. We're eager to assist you!

FAQ's:

1How do subcision and fat grafting work together?
Combining subcision and fat grafting offers a comprehensive treatment for acne scars. Subcision releases the tethered scar tissue, allowing the skin to lift, while fat grafting restores lost volume and enhances skin texture. This combination leads to superior and more natural-looking results.
2What can I expect during the procedures?
During subcision, a special hypodermic needle is used to break up the fibrous bands under the scar after administering local anesthesia. For fat grafting, fat is harvested from a donor area using liposuction, purified, and then injected into the scarred areas. Both procedures can often be performed in a single session.
3Are there any risks or side effects?
Both procedures are generally safe but can carry some risks. Common side effects of subcision include bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort. Fat grafting risks include infection, bleeding, fat resorption, numbness, nerve damage, arterial injection, lumpiness, seroma and uneven texture. However, these risks are minimized when performed by an experienced surgeon.
4How long is the recovery period?
Recovery time varies by patient, but most people experience minimal downtime. For subcision, swelling and bruising usually resolve within a week. Fat grafting recovery involves managing any liposuction-related discomfort, with most swelling subsiding within a few weeks.
5How long do the results last?
The results of subcision can be long-lasting, especially when combined with other treatments. The effects of fat grafting can also be long-lasting, with a significant portion of the transferred fat surviving permanently if the procedure is performed correctly.
6How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required varies depending on the severity of the scars and individual response to the procedures. Some patients achieve their desired results with a single session, while others may need multiple treatments for optimal results.
7Is subcision and fat grafting suitable for all skin types?
Subcision and fat grafting are generally suitable for all skin types. However, a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to determine if these treatments are the best options for your specific skin condition and scar type.
8Will my scars go away completely?
Scars do improve with this procedure but never go away completely. Results improve with every session.
9Will the procedures be painful?
Both subcision and fat grafting are performed under local anesthesia, which minimizes pain during the procedures. Patients may experience some discomfort and mild pain during recovery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers as advised by Dr. Hirra Alavi.
10Can subcision and fat grafting be combined with other acne scar treatments?
Yes, subcision and fat grafting can be combined with other acne scar treatments such as laser therapy, microneedling, and chemical peels to enhance results. Dr. Hirra Alavi will develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
11How soon will I see results after the procedures?
Initial results from subcision can be visible within a few days as swelling subsides, but the full benefits may take several months (3 to 6 months) to manifest as collagen production increases. Fat grafting results can be seen immediately, but the final outcome becomes apparent after a few months once the transferred fat has stabilized.