Punch Excision

The punch tool literally punches out the skin to create a space that allows your doctor to remove the targeted area or spot. After removing the problematic area, the remaining hole is closed with very fine suturing (stitching together) and left to heal. After about one week or so, your doctor will then remove the sutures. 

The primary goal of punch excision is to remove a problematic skin condition, such as a deep acne scar, and essentially replace it with a very small superficial scar, which is easier to address with cosmetic treatments like chemical peels and microneedling.

Some discomfort may be experienced during punch excision. However, your doctor will use a local anesthetic to minimize any pain or discomfort.

Punch excision leaves a small superficial scar, typically smaller than the initial problem spot. The scar left behind by punch excision is often easier to treat with regular cosmetic treatments, such as microneedling or effective topicals.

At Brentwood Dermatology, we utilize punch excision to primarily treat acne scars, atypical moles, cysts, some skin cancers, and other forms of facial scarring.

Punch excision can be an effective form of treatment for acne scars, mainly the rolling, boxcar, and ice pick subtypes. 

However, depending on your unique case, your dermatologist may recommend a unique treatment plan that utilizes a combination of treatment methods to optimally address and diminish acne scars. These treatment methods may include punch excision, chemical peels, microneedling, topicals, dermal fillers, and more.