Skin healing is one of the wonders of the human body, but it does not always follow a textbook approach. Scars are a natural healing phenomenon, although they may look slightly different than the surrounding skin. But not all scars are healed equally. Sometimes a scar will be too wide and flat, caused by excess tension around a wound. Other times, a scar will be raised, cause by a hyperactive healing response. In the case of atrophic scarring, the result is a depression in the skin. Atrophic scars can occur anywhere but are most often associated with the pockmarked appearance of acne scarring. Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery can provide atrophic scar removal, so you look your best.

What Causes Atrophic Scars?

When the skin is damaged down to the layer called the dermis, a scar will form. The dermis contains vital capillaries and nerve endings, ushering in a strong repair response from the body. To repair itself, the body produces a special type of protein fiber, called collagen. The collagen fibers close the wound, and when all goes according to plan, a scar remains that is reasonably normal compared to the surrounding skin.

When the collagen response is too strong or too weak, abnormal scarring occurs. If the body does not produce enough collagen following an injury, the damaged area sinks inward, creating a depression. The scar itself is usually also very thin, lacking the supporting structures that provide the normal bounce of healthy skin. Atrophic scars are usually associated with acne scarring, but can also be caused by surgery, moles, infection and skin lesions.

Atrophic Scar Treatment in Dallas, TX

Atrophic scars can be difficult to camouflage and make you self-conscious about your appearance. While there are somewhat beneficial non-surgical treatments, plastic surgery to remove the scarring is a more thorough, less time-consuming and permanent way to alleviate the pockmarking. A combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches may be recommended for the best results. If atrophic scars have left you with indentations in your skin, contact fellowship trained and board certified Dr. Azouz at Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery today.