Our outlets will be closed from 26 Mar (Tue) to 27 Mar (Wed) for our annual team bonding event. We will resume operations on 28 Mar (Thu).
Our outlets will be closed from 26 Mar (Tue) to 27 Mar (Wed) for our annual team bonding event. We will resume operations on 28 Mar (Thu).

Should You Get Fillers For Your Acne Scars?

fillers for acne scars

It’s no secret that acne scars can be a natural confidence killer. Like most people, you may be looking at creams, treatments, and even surgical procedures, doing whatever it takes to get rid of them.

So, out of all the acne scar treatment in Singapore, should you get fillers for your acne scars? In this post, we’ll look at the pros and cons of getting fillers for your acne scars to help you make an informed decision by the end.

What are Fillers?  

Fillers are a type of injectable that can be used to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars. There are many different types of fillers on the market today, each with its own unique benefits. Unlike fillers injected deep to create volume for the face, dermal fillers in Singapore are injected superficially underneath the scars to push up the scars to reduce the depth of the scars.

The most common type of filler is made from hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a natural substance that is found in the skin that helps to add volume hence reducing the scar cavity. The added hydration also gives your face a youthful look.

Another common type of filler used for acne scars is called Bellafill. Bellafill is made from a substance called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). PMMA is a synthetic material that has been used in medical implants for many years. It is currently the only FDA-approved filler for the treatment of acne scars. However, this treatment is not permitted in Singapore at the time of writing.

Filler brands carried at SL Aesthetic Clinic include Restylane, Juvederm and Belotero.

How Do Fillers Work for Acne Scars?  

While fillers are popularly used to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, they can also be used to enhance the appearance of acne scars.

For mild to moderate acne scars, fillers can help to plump up the skin and smooth out depressions. Some types of fillers can also stimulate the growth of new collagen, which can help to improve the appearance of deeper scars.

There are different types of acne scars, and not all of them can be satisfactorily treated with fillers. The best candidates for treatment are those with rolling or boxcar scars. If you have ice pick scars, fillers may not be the best option.

Different Types of Fillers for Acne Scars  

As we mentioned, there are many different types of fillers on the market today. The filler you receive will depend on your individual needs and goals.

Here are some of the most popular types of fillers for acne scars:

Hyaluronic Acid  

Whether you choose Profhilo, Juvederm, Volbella, Restylane, or any other HA-based filler, you can expect to see results lasting for several months. These fillers are typically used to treat mild to moderate acne scars.

HA fillers are composed of a natural substance found in the skin. Your body naturally produces HA to hold onto water which provides lubration for the skin, joints and eyes. As such, they are safe and effective, and side effects are rare, making it the most popular filler option.

The main downside of HA fillers is that they are not permanent. You will need to return for follow-up treatments every few months to maintain your results.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid  

Poly-L-lactic acid, or PLLA, is a synthetic substance that has been shown to stimulate the production of new collagen. Sculptra is a brand which contains PLLA. This makes it an effective treatment for deeper, more severe scars.

PLLA works by encouraging the body to produce more collagen, a protein that helps support the skin. While PLLA is most commonly used to treat deeper scars, it can also be effective in the treatment of superficial scars. When used in combination with other treatments PLLA can help to improve the appearance of most scars. However, one needs to take note that there is a small risk of lumpiness which is difficult to reverse.

Bellafill

Bellafill is made from Polymethyl-methacrylate microspheres (PMMA) and is the only FDA-approved filler to treat acne scars. It can be used to treat both rolling and boxcar scars.

The procedure is quick and easy, and results are typically visible immediately. There is no downtime, and side effects are rare. Bellafill provides long-lasting results, and studies have shown that it maintains its efficacy for up to 5 years. Unfortunately, as mentioned earlier, Bellafill is currently not available in Singapore.

How Much Do Fillers Cost?  

Fillers can be quite costly. The cost of treatment will depend on the type of filler you choose, the number of syringes you need, and the experience of your doctor.

You can expect to pay between $600 and $2500 per syringe on average. For most people, multiple needles are needed for optimal results.

The most affordable option is typically hyaluronic acid since it is the most popular and most widely available. Bellafill is the most expensive option, providing the longest-lasting results but not available locally.

How Are Fillers Administered?  

How Are Fillers Administered

Fillers are injected into the skin using a fine needle. The injections are usually given in the office of an aesthetic doctor, dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Before starting the procedure, your doctor will clean your skin and apply a numbing cream to help minimise discomfort. Once your skin is numb, your doctor will inject the filler into your scars using a fine needle.

The procedure is quick and easy, and most people tolerate it well. There is no downtime, and side effects are rare.

Depending on the type of filler you choose, results could be visible immediately or take several weeks to develop.

Are There Any Side Effects?  

Fillers are generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects include redness, swelling, bruising, and pain at the injection site. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own within a few days.

More severe side effects are very rare but can include infection, allergic reactions, lumpiness and skin death. These side effects are more likely to occur with synthetic fillers such as PMMA and PLLA which cannot be dissolved.

If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Which Filler Is Right For Me?  

The best filler for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking for a quick, easy, and affordable option, hyaluronic acid is good.

If you are looking for something more permanent, Bellafill is a good option. However, it is essential to note that Bellafill is not available in Singapore.

No matter which filler you choose, consult with a qualified and experienced medical practitioner to ensure that you get the best possible results.

Benefits of Getting Fillers For Your Acne Scars  

Benefits of Getting Fillers For Your Acne Scars

Are you considering getting fillers for your acne scars? Here are some of the benefits of this treatment:

Improves the Appearance of Scars  

Since fillers stimulate collagen production, they can help improve the appearance of scars. This is especially true for deeper, more severe scars.

While fillers are not a miracle cure, they can provide noticeable improvement for many patients. As a result, they have become an increasingly popular treatment option for those looking to improve the appearance of their scars.

Reduces Inflammation  

PLLA fillers can help to reduce inflammation, a critical factor in the healing process.

By minimising inflammation, PLLA fillers can help to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of infection. As a result, PLLA fillers have emerged as an attractive option for treating various conditions, including acne scars.

Minimal Discomfort  

Unlike some other treatments, fillers are minimally invasive and do not require local anesthesia. Fillers contain lignocaine which helps to reduce pain upon injection. In addition, at SL Aesthetic Clinic, topical anaesthesia is applied prior to injection to ensure patient’s comfort. As a result, they tend to be much better tolerated than more invasive procedures, such as surgery. This makes them an attractive option for avoiding the discomfort and risks associated with more invasive treatments.

Can Be Used In Conjunction With Other Treatments  

From wrinkles to hollow cheeks, fillers can provide a subtle yet effective way to rejuvenate your appearance. Fillers can also be used with other treatments, such as surgery or laser therapy.

This allows your doctor to customize a treatment plan best suited for your individual needs and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Here are some frequently asked questions about fillers for acne scars:

Do I Need to Get Fillers for my Acne Scars?  

While fillers are not suitable for everyone, they can be an effective treatment option for many people. Fillers can provide noticeable improvement for many patients, making them a popular choice for those looking to improve the appearance of their scars.

There are acne scars that are best treated with surgery, laser treatment (fractional Co2 or Pico Scar Laser) or ablative RF.  Lasers provide a more permanent to semi-permanent solution. However, fillers can provide a more simpler / convenient alternative to these options for many people.

People who are not suitable for laser treatments may also consider filller options. This include those who are photosensitive, or people with frequent exposure to sun and/or cannot afford the downtime which comes with laser treatments.

Where do I Get Fillers for my Acne Scars?  

The best place to get fillers for your acne scars is from a qualified medical practioner. These doctors have the training and experience necessary to ensure that you get the best possible results.

They will also be able to advise you on the best type of filler for your individual needs.

Injections can be done in various ways, and your provider will be able to discuss the options with you and determine which approach is likely to give you the best results.

Experienced medical doctors also tend to have access to the latest products and technologies, so you can be confident that you’re getting the most advanced treatment available.

Can I Get Fillers for my Acne Scars if I Have Sensitive Skin?  

It is generally safe unless there is active lesion, eczema, rash near the point of injection. Those with sensitive skin should avoid lasers for acne and hence filler may be a better alternative.

Side effects for fillers, including redness, bruising, and swelling, are usually mild and temporary but may be more severe in people with sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to consult your doctor before proceeding.

Do I need to Avoid Anything Before Getting Fillers for my Acne Scars?  

You should avoid using blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for at least two weeks before your surgery. These medicines might raise the possibility of bruising and bleeding.

It would be best to avoid prolonged and extreme sun exposure for at least two weeks before your procedure. Sun exposure may make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of side effects.

If you have any other medical conditions, such as diabetes or a bleeding disorder, you should talk to your doctor before getting fillers for your acne scars.

Are There Any Other Treatments for Acne Scars?  

Dermabrasion is an older treatment option. This involves using a rotating diamond peel or brush to remove the top layer of skin. This type of treatment can be effective for shallow scars.Side effects include long downtime of 2 weeks or more, possibility of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and dermatitis. In recent years, this option has become less popular and not provided widely.

For deeper scars, laser therapy might be a better option. This type of treatment uses intense pulsed light to stimulate the growth of new skin cells. One good example is Fractional CO2 Laser or  Pico Laser treatment, one of the most advanced laser treatments currently available on the market

There is also TCA Cross, a type of laser treatment that is showing promise for the treatment of acne scars. This procedure uses trichloroacetic acid to improve the appearance of scars. This is also an old technique, that got popularised recently, mainly used for icepick scars which may be recalcitrant.

Your doctor will be able to recommend the best treatment for your individual needs.

How do I Choose a Provider for Fillers for my Acne Scars?

When choosing a provider for fillers for your acne scars, it’s important to choose someone who is experienced.

It’s also important to find someone who you feel comfortable with. You should feel confident that your provider will listen to your concerns and answer any questions you have.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can ask your regular doctor for a referral. You can also search for providers online.

When meeting with a potential provider, be sure to ask about their experience injecting fillers and ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients.

SL Aesthetic Clinic has a team of highly experienced doctors who are dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients.

Final Thoughts  

Fillers are a great treatment to consider for acne scar removal in Singapore. If you’re considering fillers as an option for your imperfections, consult with a qualified professional who can help you choose the best filler and treatment plan for your situation.

With the right filler and treatment plan, you can say goodbye to those pesky acne scars and hello to smooth, clear skin. Have you tried fillers for your acne scars? What was your experience like?

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