An acne crater is a term often used to describe an acne scar. Also referred to as a rolling scar, this saucer-like depression is usually a result of more moderate to severe cases of acne. Treatment for acne craters depends on the severity of scarring as well as your medical history, skin type and other factors, so consult your dermatologist.
Subcutaneous Incision
One of the more common forms of treatment for acne craters is subcutaneous incision. More commonly known as subcision, this procedure is characterized by the American Academy of Dermatology as the manual separation of the skin from the underlying scar tissue. A probe is fed under the skin to detach the base of your epidermis from the scar tissue, which allows the saucer-like depression to become flush with the rest of your skin.
Side Effects
Most people experience some light pain and bruising with subcutaneous incision, but this usually dissipates after one to two weeks. It's also possible to develop a subcutaneous nodule along the surgical site. A subcutaneous nodule is basically a lump under the surface of the skin. However, this is rare and can easily be treated with corticosteroid injections.
Follow-up Care
It isn't uncommon for your dermatologist to use other modalities to further improve acne craters after subcision surgery, advises the American Academy of Dermatology. Laser therapy and soft tissue fillers are both beneficial for this purpose. Laser therapy directs waves of laser energy over surgical sites to remodel and smooth the skin. Soft tissue fillers such as collagen, hyaluronic acid or fat are used to fill in and plump up any remaining saucer-like depressions. Your dermatologist may also turn to chemical peels or dermabrasion after a surgical procedure to improve the overall tone and texture of the skin.
Other Surgical Procedures
Subcision surgery is the standard form of treatment, but other surgical procedures may be of some benefit for rolling scars. Punch excision, punch graft or punch elevation are all potential options. Each of these procedures uses a punch biopsy tool to remove the scar tissue. The site is then sutured, fitted with a skin graft or the scar tissue is elevated with the rest of your skin, respectively.
Prevention
The most effective form of treatment for acne craters is prevention. To minimize the development of rolling scars, avoid picking or popping the papules, pustules, nodules or cysts that develop as a result of acne. Picking or popping any acne lesion can lead to infection, irritation or inflammation of the affected hair follicle, which often leads to permanent skin damage and scarring.
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