Returning deeply indented scars from acne or chickenpox to the normal skin level is a very challenging treatment. Since the appropriate treatment method differs depending on various aspects such as the depth, shape, and area of the scar, customized combination treatment is important for achieving good results. Especially for deeply indented scars, if proper treatment is not performed, the effect may be minimal even after repeating treatments many times.
Why are deeply indented acne scars difficult to treat?
While various scar treatments exist to date, deeply indented scars may be difficult to achieve satisfactory improvement with general laser treatment alone. This is because the scar tissue itself is deeply embedded, limiting surface-level approaches.
An effective method for treating deep scars: What is 'Punch Technique'?
Punch Technique is considered one of the effective treatments for deeply indented scars. Punch Technique is a procedure that uses a long, rod-shaped instrument called a 'punch' to lift the indented scar area to the normal skin level.
The biggest advantage is that even with a single treatment, noticeable results can be expected for deeply indented boxcar acne scars or icepick acne scars that are difficult to improve with laser treatment.
Although the effectiveness of Punch Technique has been known in the dermatological community for a long time, there are not many doctors in Korea who can properly perform Punch Technique. This is because Punch Technique is a type of surgery that requires high technical skill.
Limitations of existing Punch Technique and a new approach
Existing Punch Technique, as described in previous papers, had one drawback. Because the lifted skin had to be sutured, suture marks would persist for several months or longer, causing inconvenience in daily life, and there was the regret of marks remaining in that area.
'Suture-Free Punch' for a quick return to daily life without sutures
To compensate for the shortcomings of existing Punch Technique, our clinic, after long research, developed Suture-Free Punch, which fixes the treated area without sutures using specialized medication, and presented it at the Korean Dermatological Association's Fall Conference in 2011.
Suture-Free Punch retains the advantages of Punch Technique, which is effective for deeply indented scars, while having the significant advantage of leaving no suture marks because no sutures are used. Furthermore, since only a regenerative tape needs to be applied for about 3 days after the procedure, there is the benefit of being able to return to daily life immediately after the procedure.
- Maintains deep scar improvement effect
- No suture marks remain
- Possible to return to daily life quickly after the procedure
Suture-Free Punch: Be sure to check before the procedure
Since Punch Technique treats each indented scar at a surgical level, it may not be suitable if there are too many scars, as the procedure time can be long. Also, if the practitioner lacks expertise or performs the procedure incorrectly, there is a possibility of side effects such as uneven skin. Therefore, it is important to consult sufficiently with a dermatologist experienced in Suture-Free Punch before deciding whether to proceed with the treatment. Procedure costs can be guided in detail after consultation.