Top Causes of Atrophic Scars

At the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center in Orlando, FL, we specialize in treating various types of scars, including atrophic scars. These scars are characterized by a sunken, pitted appearance and occur when the skin is unable to regenerate enough tissue after healing from an injury or condition. Understanding the causes of atrophic scars can help patients seek appropriate treatments to improve their skin’s appearance and function. Some of the most common causes include acne, burns, cosmetic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and trauma surgery.

1. Acne

Acne is one of the leading causes of atrophic scars, particularly severe or cystic acne that affects deeper layers of the skin. When the skin’s inflammatory response to acne lesions becomes excessive, it can destroy collagen, leaving behind depressions or pits in the skin. Studies suggest that up to 95% of people with severe acne will develop some form of scarring, with atrophic scars being the most common type. These scars often occur on the face, but they can also appear on the back and shoulders. Early treatment of acne can help minimize scarring, but once atrophic scars form, specialized treatments are often required to restore a smoother skin surface.

2. Burns

Burns, particularly second and third-degree burns, can cause significant damage to the skin’s deeper layers, leading to atrophic scarring. When a burn destroys the skin’s collagen and elastin, it can leave behind scars that are depressed or sunken. In severe cases, burns can cause contracture scars, which tighten the skin, but atrophic scars are more common when the skin loses its ability to regenerate tissue. Burn scars often require extensive treatment to reduce their appearance and improve skin flexibility. Techniques like laser therapy and skin grafting can help improve the texture and appearance of burn scars.

3. Cosmetic Surgery

While cosmetic surgery aims to improve or enhance appearance, it can sometimes result in atrophic scarring, particularly if the healing process is disrupted. For instance, facelift scars or scars from other aesthetic procedures may appear depressed if the body does not produce enough collagen during healing. Factors like infection, improper wound care, or individual skin types can influence how well surgical incisions heal. Surgeons often use advanced techniques to minimize scarring, but in cases where atrophic scars form, treatments such as dermal fillers or microneedling can help restore volume to the affected areas.

4. Orthopedic Surgery

Orthopedic surgery, which involves procedures to correct injuries or deformities of the bones and joints, can sometimes lead to atrophic scarring. Surgeries on areas like the knees, elbows, or shoulders may leave scars that are sunken or recessed if the surrounding tissue heals improperly. Poor healing can be influenced by factors such as surgical complications, infection, or reduced blood flow to the affected area. Post-surgical scars can be addressed with treatments like laser resurfacing or corticosteroid injections to promote smoother skin regeneration.

5. Trauma Surgery

Trauma surgery performed to treat serious injuries from accidents falls, or other forms of physical trauma can result in atrophic scars. When the skin is damaged by a deep cut or wound, it may not produce enough collagen during the healing process, leading to pitted or sunken scars. Traumatic injuries to the face or body are common causes of atrophic scars, and they can have both physical and emotional impacts on patients. Treatments such as scar revision surgery or fractional laser therapy can help improve the appearance of these scars, making the skin look smoother and more uniform.

Atrophic scars can result from a variety of causes, including acne, burns, surgeries, and trauma. While these scars can be difficult to treat, the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center in Orlando, FL, offers advanced treatment options to help reduce their appearance and restore the skin’s natural smoothness. Professional scar treatment is essential for optimal outcomes. If you’re dealing with atrophic or other types of scars, our center can help provide tailored treatments that improve both appearance and skin function.