Acne and Surgical Scar Treatment in Western Sydney
Scars develop as part of the skin’s healing process and can be caused by acne, surgical procedures or physical trauma. While the skin heals, visible changes in texture or colour can remain and may affect confidence and comfort.
SkinDoc in Liverpool provides medical dermatology care for scar concerns with individualised treatment planning. Dr Yip, Specialist Dermatologist and Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists, has extensive local and international training and manages the assessment and treatment planning for patients with scarring and other skin conditions.
Many people often come in after trying creams, serums, or pharmacy treatments with little change. A specialist dermatology assessment can help guide a tailored treatment plan based on the type of scar and how your skin is responding.
Why a dermatologist assesses scar type first
Not all scars are created equal. A treatment that suits one type of scar may not suit another. For example, surgical scars and pitted acne scars require different treatment options. A specialist dermatology assessment with Dr Yip can identify your scar type, depth, location and behaviour to determine a treatment plan suitable for you.
Types of acne and surgical scars
Scars can appear in different ways depending on how the skin has healed. The dropdowns below show the most common types seen at SkinDoc.
▸ Atrophic (pitted) scars
These are indented scars often seen after acne or chickenpox. They form when there is a loss of collagen during healing and may be also known as ice-pick, boxcar or rolling scars.
▸ Pigmented or discoloured scars (acne marks)
These are changes in skin colour after inflammation such as acne. They can appear as red marks (post-inflammatory erythema) or brown marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and sometimes referred to as post-acne marks.
▸ Raised scars (hypertrophic and keloid scars)
These are raised scars that form when there is excess collagen during healing. Hypertrophic scars stay within the original area of injury, while keloid scars may expand and grow into surrounding skin.
▸ Surgical scars
Surgical scars can appear flat, raised, or indented depending on how the skin heals, the type of procedure, and the area of the body involved. In some cases, the colour of the scar may also change during healing.
Scar treatment options available at a dermatologist clinic
Scar care may involve a combination of medical treatments chosen after review. Plans are individual and may be adjusted depending on how the skin responds.
1. Laser treatment
Laser treatments are used in dermatology for acne scars and surgical scars. Fractional laser treatment creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which may support collagen production and gradual improvement in skin texture.
Other laser types may be used to address redness or pigmentation that can remain after acne or injury.
2. Subcision
Subcision is a minor in-clinic treatment used for depressed scars that are pulled down by fibrous bands under the skin. A fine needle is used to release these bands, which may allow the skin surface to lift.
Subcision may be used with dermal fillers or laser treatment depending on individual assessment.
3. Dermal fillers
Dermal fillers may be used to support elevation of depressed scars. The filler is placed beneath the scar to bring it closer to surrounding skin level.
This provides a temporary change in contour and may be used alongside treatments that support longer-term skin remodelling.
4. Corticosteroid injections
Raised scars such as hypertrophic scars and keloids may be treated with corticosteroid injections. This treatment may reduce inflammation and collagen activity within scar tissue, supporting flattening and relief of symptoms such as itch or tenderness.
5. Surgical scar revision
In some situations, surgical revision may be considered for deeper or more complex scars. This involves removal or refinement of the scar and careful closure of the skin to create a smoother scar line.
After healing, further treatments such as laser therapy may be used to support skin texture.
Acne scars and ongoing skin changes
Acne scars are one of the most common reasons people seek dermatology care. These may appear as indentations, raised areas, or changes in pigmentation.
Active acne can also contribute to ongoing scarring, which is why treatment may involve both acne control and scar care at the same time. Addressing active breakouts early can help reduce the risk of new scarring forming.
Ongoing care for acne and surgical scars
Scar treatment is usually gradual and may involve more than one stage of care. Treatment selection depends on scar type, skin changes, and how the skin responds to care.
At Skindoc, care is guided by specialist dermatology clinicians using medical and laser-based treatments available within the clinic.
Medical dermatology care across Western Sydney
Skindoc provides medical and surgical dermatology services for patients across Liverpool, South Western Sydney, and surrounding Western Sydney suburbs including Bankstown, Fairfield, and Campbelltown.
Services include acne scar treatment for Western Sydney patients, surgical scar treatment in Sydney, keloid scar care, and medical dermatology for acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.
Referral and next steps
A GP referral is required for all dermatology consultations. SkinDoc works closely with referring GPs so information can be shared and care can continue in a coordinated way.
To discuss scar treatment options, you can book a consultation at SkinDoc in Liverpool or speak with your GP about a referral to SkinDoc Dermatology.
*This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All medical procedures carry risk and results may vary. Consult with Dr Yip (MED0001134094) for tailored advice and treatment planning.