Dangers, Risks & Side Effects of Acne Scar Surgery


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It is very normal to be worried about opting for a surgical solution to your acne scars. Surgery can seem like an extreme option. However, acne scar removal surgeries are often very safe as long as they are carried out by a licensed, experienced practitioner. They are done under local anaesthetic so you will not experience any pain during the procedures, you may feel pressure or tugging as your practitioner performs the surgery but this should not be uncomfortable. As with any surgery however, there are a few risks that your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon will discuss with you before the operation.

Risks of Acne Scar Surgery

As most acne scar removal surgeries can be conducted in a very short space of time, some in as few as ten minutes, the risks that come with all surgical procedures are even less likely. These possible risks are:


  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • A bad reaction to the local anaesthetic

However, it is highly improbable that any of these will happen to you. As long as you are in the hands of a practitioner with experience and whom you trust, there is very little to worry about in terms of immediate health risks. Be sure to disclose you full medical history to your practitioner during your consultation to further avoid any problems.

Side Effects of Acne Scar Surgery

As the surgery is so safe and interferes purely with your skin, there is very little chance of unrelated, more dangerous side effects occurring. There are, however, a number of related side effects that you will probably experience during the fortnight following your treatment. If these side effects do not clear up within a few weeks, consult your doctor or dermatologist. Side effects of this kind include:

  • Bleeding from the area operated upon
  • Pain in the area
  • Skin sensitivity in the area
  • Bruising and swelling of the area, especially after subcutaneous incision.

There is a chance that you could experience some less common side effects. After surgery, if you believe you are suffering from any of the following, you should seek medical advice:

  • Infection of the wound
  • Allergies to any medication you may have been given
  • Healing problems

Complications with Acne Scar Surgery

Acne is a complicating factor of acne scar surgery. It is important that before you even consider surgery you first get your acne under control. Spending time and money on reducing acne scars is a bad idea if you are likely to get more. Also, if your acne is severe it can complicate the healing process and even make operated-on acne look even worse than it was before.

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