Atrophic postacne scars subcision followed by diluted calcium hydroxylapatite injection versus autologous plasma gel injection: a split-face study

Background A diverse array of therapeutic approaches exists for addressing atrophic acne scarring, encompassing techniques, such as laser resurfacing, radiofrequency therapy, subcision, microneedling of the skin, punch methods, chemical exfoliation, and soft-tissue fillers. Objective To evaluate the safety profiles and efficacy of subcision followed by diluted calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) injection versus subcision followed by autologous plasma gel injection in the treatment of atrophic acne scars. Patients and methods Split-face study was carried out on 12 patients aged from 20 to 45 years old, of both sexes, with atrophic postacne scars. All patients underwent subcision, diluted CaHA (right side), and plasma gel (left side) treatment. Results Before treatment, modified homogeneity and texture grading scale (H and T), echelle d’ evaluation Clinique des cicatrices d’ acne, Goodman, Baron’s assessment, and Scale for Acne Scar Severity showed no significant difference between the right and left sides while after treatment, they showed significant improvement on the right side than on the left side ( P 0.05). Conclusion CaHA filler significantly improved acne scars more than plasma gel, with higher satisfaction and improvement scores. Performing subcisions before injection of CaHA enhanced the outcome. Rolling and box scars significantly improved, whereas icepick scars did not respond to the treatments either.