Acne Scar Treatment Melbourne

Acne Scarring

Acne scarring can occur after acne and may change the appearance or texture of the skin. Scars can appear raised (hypertrophic) or indented (atrophic). Atrophic scars may look different depending on their shape and depth. A mix of different scar types can occur in the same person.

Rolling scars –Shallow, wide scars with sloped edges, often on the cheeks.
Boxcar scars – Angular scars with sharp edges, seen on the cheeks or temples.
Ice-pick scars – Narrow, deep scars that extend into the skin.
Hypertrophic scars – Raised scars on the skin surface.
Post-inflammatory pigmentation – Flat red, brown, or dark marks after acne.
Post-Inflammatory Erythema (Redness) – prolonged red discolouration at sites of acne scarring

Disclaimer

All treatments require a formal consultation with Dr Omarjee prior to any treatment. During this consultation, patients' concerns are carefully assessed, and a personalised treatment plan is developed. This includes discussing the nature of the proposed treatment(s), alternative treatments, potential risks and relevant complications, aftercare instructions, and the costs involved. It also allows time for patients to ask questions.

Types of Scar: Ice Pick, Box, Rolling, Hypertrophic Scar

The treatment for acne scarring starts with an initial thorough medical consultation and assessment with Dr Ed Omarjee. This allows your skin to be carefully examined to determine the types of acne scars you may have and also determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your acne scars.

Types of Treatments

Fotona Dynamis SP – Erbium 2940nm Laser (Ablative Laser)

The Fotona Dynamis SP – Erbium 2940nm laser is an ablative laser that removes very thin layers of the skin surface. It can be applied in two ways:

Full ablative mode: The laser removes the entire surface layer in a controlled, micron-thin pass.
Fractionated mode (F-Runner handpiece): The laser targets only selected areas of the skin surface while leaving surrounding areas untreated, which supports the healing process.

The recovery time after an ablative session varies depending on the intensity of the settings, the type of scarring, and individual skin factors. Laser treatments for acne scarring may be eligible for a Medicare rebate if the scars meet the relevant assessment criteria.

Fotona laser resurfacing 1,Acne scar treatment 1, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

Acne scar laser treatment 2, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

Subcision

Some acne scars appear indented because fibrous tissue beneath the skin pulls the surface downward. Subcision is a technique where an instrument is placed under the skin to release some of this fibrous tissue. The area may then heal by forming new connective tissue.

This approach is often discussed in relation to shallow acne scars rather than ice-pick scars. More than one session may be considered, depending on the type and extent of scarring. Possible effects after subcision include bruising, swelling that may last one to two weeks, or temporary numbness in the treated area.

Secret RF (Fractionated Radiofrequency Microneedling)

How Secret RF Works and What it Treats

The Secret RF device uses ultrafine, disposable needles together with controlled radiofrequency energy. The needles create tiny entry points in the skin while radiofrequency energy is directed to a set depth, which can be adjusted depending on the treatment area.

This approach is sometimes discussed in relation to different types of acne scars, including rolling, atrophic, mixed, or tethered scars. Recovery time can vary depending on the depth of treatment and individual skin factors. Temporary redness, swelling, or sensitivity may occur after a session.

Find Out More

Secret RF treatment for acne scarring 1, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

25-pin non-insulated micro-needle tip

Secret RF Results

The number of Secret RF sessions can vary. Some patients may have a single session, while others may be advised to have a series spaced several weeks apart. The timing and number of sessions will depend on your skin and the concerns being addressed, and this will be discussed with you during your consultation.

Secret RF delivers controlled radiofrequency energy at adjustable depths, which allows it to be considered for a range of skin concerns.

Exion RF (Radiofrequency & Ultrasound Microneedling)

Exion is a TGA-listed, AI-based monopolar radiofrequency device that combines RF, ultrasound, and artificial intelligence to stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It is designed to address concerns such as acne scarring, surgical scarring, skin laxity, texture, and hydration.

Secret RF microneedling for acne scars 2, Dr Ed Omarjee Melbourne

Exion offers four handpieces, allowing treatment to be customised to your needs. For acne scarring, sessions are usually spaced every 2–3 months. For rejuvenation and hydration, treatments may be repeated every 2–3 weeks before moving to a tailored maintenance plan.

Most patients notice only mild redness for a few hours and can return to normal activities the same day. Exion can also be combined with other options such as subcision, PRP, or laser, depending on your treatment plan.

Aesthetic Facial Treatments for Volume Loss

Aesthetic facial treatments for volume loss may be considered as an option in the management of acne scars. These treatments add volume to selected areas beneath the skin surface.

Acne scar treatment (cheek dermal fillers) 3, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

The effect is not permanent and can vary, depending on factors such as the type of product used, the area treated, and individual patient characteristics. Repeat sessions may be discussed as part of your plan. Suitability and timing will be assessed during your consultation.

Skin Needling (Dermapen/MDerma)

Skin needling uses a specialised device, such as MDerma or Dermapen, to create controlled micro-channels in the skin. The depth of treatment can be adjusted, for example, up to 2.5mm, depending on the area being treated.

This approach can be considered for different skin types and may be planned as a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart. Temporary effects such as redness or sensitivity may occur, and recovery time can vary.

TCA Hylacross

TCA CROSS (chemical reconstruction of skin scars) involves applying very small amounts of a high-strength trichloroacetic acid (TCA) solution to selected atrophic scars, particularly ice-pick scars.

The process creates a controlled effect on the skin surface at the site of the scar. A series of treatments is usually considered, with timing and number of sessions depending on individual factors.

PRP

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma, a treatment prepared from your own blood. It contains plasma and platelets, which naturally carry proteins, nutrients, and growth factors. These components play a role in normal healing processes in the body.

PRP may be discussed as part of an acne scar management plan. It can also be considered alongside other procedures such as laser, radiofrequency, or subcision, depending on your individual needs. Suitability and treatment planning will be assessed during your consultation.

Regen PRP treatment 01, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

Laser Genesis

Laser Genesis can be discussed as an option for acne scarring. One approach is to address redness in the affected area using laser energy directed at the surface blood vessels. Another is to stimulate processes in the skin that support repair over time.

Planning often involves a series of sessions spaced apart. Temporary effects such as redness or sensitivity may occur, and the response can vary between patients.

Cutera Laser for acne scars 1, The DOC Clinic Melbourne

Punch Biopsy

Punch excision is a method sometimes used for a type of acne scarring called ice-pick scars. Acne scars can appear in different forms, such as rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick scars. Ice-pick scars are narrow but deep openings, often seen on the cheeks and temples. These can be difficult to manage with some other treatment options, and punch excision may be considered for selected cases.

This technique uses a small circular instrument, called a punch biopsy tool, which is also used in other dermatology procedures. The tool removes the scar, and the resulting wound (often 2–3mm in diameter) is closed with fine sutures. Sutures are generally removed after about a week. In some cases, a superficial erbium laser treatment may be considered later as part of the management of the new scar.

Topical Skincare

The reduction of acne scarring can also be aided by topical skincare, such as our specially formulated Toskani range. This range contains properties and active ingredients to promote evenness of skin tone and texture. Dr Omarjee and his team, once we have assessed your condition, can provide you with a recommended skincare regimen to suit your particular acne scars and skin condition. Learn more about Toskani skincare in a private consultation.

A consultation with Dr Ed Omarjee is required to determine if this method is suitable for your type of acne scarring.

Medicare coverage

Medically relevant consultations usually are eligible for a Medicare-specific refund. (Cosmetic consultations are not Medicare eligible.)

Financing

The DOC Clinic is a private specialist clinic. Fees charged are in line with AMA recommended rates for specialist consultations. The fee may vary according to the service provided to you on the day you are seen. We require full payment on the day of consultation, and accept cash, EFTPOS, Visa and MasterCard.

Some consultations and/or treatments may attract a Medicare rebate. The DOC Clinic can process Medicare claims at the time of your appointment in the clinic.

Medicare Website

Medicare rebates may be available for some acne scarring consultations and/or treatments. Please contact us to find out more.