Acne Scarring Treatment Options

Home » Blog » 2021 » April

Many of us remember all too well what it was like to battle acne in our teen years, or even into adulthood. Too add insult to injury, many people who suffer from acne are left with visible scarring that can range from mild to severe.  Acne scarring is permanent and is associated with proven and profound psychological implications.  Affected individuals commonly feel low self-esteem and struggle with self-confidence throughout their lives. 

Treatment of acne scarring has proven challenging for many patients and physicians.  Dr. Biesman has had a special interest in the treatment of acne scarring for over 25 years.  He and his team use this experience to develop a results-driven acne scarring treatment plan for each patient whether they are seeking acne scar treatment in Nashville, TN or travel from long distances for their care.

 

What are the Best Options for Acne Scarring Treatment?


The best way to determine how to treat your acne scarring is to join Dr. Biesman for a one-on-one consultation. After evaluating your skin and talking with you about your expectations and goals, Dr. Biesman will recommend acne scarring treatment options that are right for you. Keep in mind, acne scarring treatment is a marathon, not a sprint; most patients will require a series of treatments to achieve best outcomes.

Here are some examples of the clinical modalities we offer for the reduction of acne scarring.  For any given patient, a combination of these techniques is typically necessary as there are numerous types of acne scars, each of which can require unique treatment for best response.

 

Subcision Treatment

One way to address acne scarring is through a method known as subcision.  Subcision is a procedure that releases depressed acne scars, allowing them to become more level. This procedure is the foundation of many acne scarring treatment plans as it can improve the appearance of rolling and “boxcar” scars, two of the most common types of acne scars.

Dr. Biesman uses a subcision technique that he has developed and fine-tuned.  He is one of the few practitioners in the country to offer this procedure and many patients who have undergone numerous previous treatments say that this is the only method that really gives them results.

This is a treatment that we offer right here in our office.  Local anesthetic (numbing injections) is used for comfort but IV sedation or general anesthesia are not required.  A blunt cannula is used to release the scar from the underlying deeper tissues holding the scars down, allowing the skin to become smoother. In some cases, we may also recommend the use of dermal or injectable fillers or even radiofrequency microneedling to further smooth out the skin and reduce the visibility of the scar.

To find out more, reach out to our practice and set up a consultation or visit our acne scar treatment before and after gallery.

 

Surgical excision of Acne Scars

Some acne scars are deep and narrow; we often call these “ice pick” scars, and they tend to be unresponsive to treatment with lasers and other technology-based treatments.  As a result, we may recommend surgically removing these scars.

The process of acne scar excision is less intimidating than it might sound. In fact, the procedure takes place here in our office, and we can do it without the need for sedation. Local anesthesia is sufficient to keep you completely comfortable while Dr. Biesman excises your acne scars.

As each scar is removed, a suture is used to help heal the skin. Those deep ice pick scars turn into smoother, shallower scars, which may later be treated through non-surgical means.

Note that the ice pick scars are usually found on the cheeks or temples. In other words, they can be fairly prominent, and having them removed can make a world of difference for your appearance as well as give you a boost of confidence.  Surgical removal of ice pick scars is often performed at the same time as subcision or other acne scars or treatments.

Please reach out to our office for more information about treatment of acne scarring.

 

Laser Treatments for Acne Scarring Acne Scar Treatment Nashville

 

Lasers often play an extremely important role in acne scarring treatment.  Many different laser technologies are available.  The device chosen will depend on the nature of the skin and the acne scars.  Treatment of acne scarring can help return your skin to a smooth, even complexion.

Most laser treatments used for the treatment of acne scarring can be performed in the office.  A series of treatments is usually recommended to obtain ideal outcomes.

Dr. Biesman provides a full range of laser treatments and recommends a acne scarring treatment plan customized to meet each patient’s needs.  In many cases, more than one laser may be needed to achieve results.  Dr. Biesman and his team will answer your questions provide all the information you need in advance of your laser treatment.

 

Radiofrequency Microneedling for Acne Scars

Radiofrequency microneedling is another useful tool in the treatment of some acne scars.  Radiofrequency microneedling with the Morpheus 8 device is often performed at the same time as subcision or laser treatment.  Morpheus 8 radiofrequency microneedling treatments can be performed with topical anesthesia.  As is typical of all acne scarring treatments, multiple treatment sessions are typically required to achieve the best outcomes.

 

Treating Acne Scarring with Injectable Fillers

Soft tissue fillers can also play an important role in the treatment of acne scarring.  Fillers are be applied under depressed scars, bringing them to the same level as the rest of the skin.  In select cases, fillers are also used during the subcision process, to promote better outcomes.  When treating depressed scars, Dr. Biesman may use Restylane® or Bellafill®, the only FDA-approved filler indicated for the treatment of acne scarring. Dr. Biesman was part of the clinical trial which demonstrated that Bellafill is a safe and effective treatment for acne scarring. 

Dr. Biesman and his team will let you know if soft tissue fillers can play a role in helping you achieve your best results.

Learn More About Treatment for Acne Scarring

Acne scarring can have devastating effects on those who are affected by them. Thankfully, it is now possible to achieve significant improvement in the appearance of acne scarring and help restore self-confidence. The best candidates for treatment understand that this is a process and that it may take a year or more to get the desired results.

As you consider your options for acne scar treatment, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Biesman. He will be happy to talk with you about acne scar solutions that are right for you.

 

Introducing New Cellulite Treatment: Qwo®

Home » Blog » 2021 » April

You’re probably familiar with the “dimpled” appearance of cellulite… especially if you’re a woman. If you’ve noticed this textured appearance on your buttocks or thighs, you’re hardly alone: About 90 percent of all women have cellulite, which first appears around the point they reach puberty. Despite being so common, cellulite can lead to feelings of self-consciousness.

 

If you’ve ever been frustrated by the appearance of cellulite, take heart: There is now a non-surgical cellulite treatment option that has been proven to minimize the appearance of cellulite, specifically on the buttocks; and, it offers results that really last. We are talking about a new injectable treatment called Qwo, which could be the breakthrough cellulite treatment you’ve been waiting for to help you deal with cellulite on the buttocks. Qwo is unlike any other injectable and Dr. Biesman and his team are proud to now make Qwo cellulite treatment available to their patients. 

 

Qwo cellulite treatment before and after

 

What is Cellulite?

Before explaining Qwo cellulite treatment, it may be helpful to share some basic information about cellulite. What is it, where does it come from, and who is most likely to get it?

Cellulite is a harmless but sometimes embarrassing skin condition, causing a dimpled or lumpy appearance. Some people say that it resembles the texture of cottage cheese or of an orange peel.

Cellulite can be seen in various places across the body, including the breasts and upper arms. However, it is most commonly seen around the thighs and buttocks.

While cellulite isn’t harmful, it can cause some self-consciousness or feelings of awkwardness and may prevent some women from wearing the clothes they really want to wear like bikinis and yoga pants. 

 

What Causes Cellulite?

So what causes cellulite? The answer involves your septae, which are fibrous connective cords that keep your skin tethered to the underlying tissue, with a layer of fat in between. Cellulite appears when the fat cells push upward against your skin, while the septae continue to pull the skin downward. This tension is what creates that lumpy or rippling effect on the surface of the skin.  Men do not typically develop cellulite as their septae are oriented horizontally rather than vertically and do not allow fat cells to push upwards toward the skin.

It is extremely important to note that cellulite appears in women of all body types and is not related to obesity or weight gain.  In fact, weight loss does not affect the appearance of cellulite so diet, exercise, and other weight loss strategies will not improve cellulite.


Cellulite and Aging

 Cellulite first appears around the age of puberty.  As skin loses its elasticity due to sun damage, genetic and environmental factors, and aging, irregularity in the skin’s surface can become more pronounced.  This is due to increased skin laxity.  Patients who have lax skin and cellulite are not the best candidates for Qwo cellulite treatment injections though there are other treatments Dr. Biesman and his team may recommend.

 

Introducing Qwo® Cellulite Treatment

Nashville Cellulite Treatment

What is Qwo, exactly? It’s an injectable medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite in women between the ages of 18 and 78. Qwo cellulite treatment works by actively destroying the fibrous bands that cause dimpling; and, it triggers the formation of new collagen in the areas where cellulite used to be, meaning it can help you rejuvenate your skin for a smoother, more youthful appearance.  Following treatment with Qwo the buttocks frequently demonstrate improvement in the overall appearance and skin quality.

Dr. Biesman has been involved in scientific research with this exciting new product and continues to study ways to enhance the patient experience as well as explore new applications for Qwo. This knowledge helps Dr. Biesman and his team provide the best outcomes for patients interested in improving the appearance of their cellulite.

 

Common Questions About Qwo

Given that this is a new treatment, it’s understandable that some patients will have questions. Dr. Biesman and his highly experienced staff would love to answer those questions directly; to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Biesman or one of his highly skilled nurses, please contact our office.

In the meantime, here are a few common queries regarding Qwo cellulite treatment.

 

How many sessions of Qwo will I need in order to see results?

 Three treatment sessions, scheduled 21 days apart, are typically recommended.  However, requirements may vary for each individual.

 

Are there any side effects associated with Qwo?

Significant bruising occurs in the treated area after the first treatment.  Subsequent treatments are associated with significantly less bruising.  Bruising after the first treatment typically resolves within approximately 2 weeks.  Other side effects which occur less commonly include tenderness, swelling, or redness in the treatment area.  These effects subside rapidly.

 

How long will the results last?

 The results of your Qwo cellulite treatment may be permanent

 

Are there alternatives to Qwo?

Qwo may not be the right treatment for everyone, and Dr. Biesman and his team of experts can talk with you about some other body contouring options, including the possibility of hyperdilute Radiesse® or Sculptra® injections.  Dr. Biesman will also be studying a novel device for the treatment of cellulite.  More on that to come soon!

 

Get the Treatment You Need to Improve the Appearance of Cellulite

Cellulite won’t hurt you, but it might cause some personal embarrassment. If that’s your experience, we invite you to learn more about Qwo cellulite treatment and other treatments for cellulite. We are pleased to offer a range of solutions here at our practice and would love to help you identify the treatment option that’s best for you.

 

Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Biesman or one of our experienced and skilled nurses.  We look forward to hearing from you soon!