Acne scar treatment using combination therapy: Subcision and human autologous fibroblast injection

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Acne scar treatment is a problem for both the dermatologist and the dermatologic surgeon. Many therapies have been advanced to improve acne scars over the past years. Nevertheless, they were often related to adverse side effects like hyperpigmentation. These combination therapy using subcision and autologous fibroblast injection can provide a better technique for the acne scar treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this study, we describe nine patients with the age of 25 to 48 and rolling acne scars (moderate to severe) that were treated with combination therapy using subcision (cannula, 18 gauge) and autologous fibroblast injection. Finally, before and 6 months after the final injection, the patients' biometric characteristics were evaluated by Visioface 1000D and Mexameter and a skin ultrasound imaging system. RESULTS: The results show a significant improvement in the acne scars in the patients. The Visioface results showed that the size and number of skin pores and spots were reduced after combination therapy. Also, the results of skin ultrasonography exhibited denser skin layers both in the epidermis and dermis. CONCLUSION: In summary, the combination therapy of autologous fibroblast injection and subcision can be considered as a new alternative, safe, and useful method for acne scar treatment.