Acne can leave behind not just emotional distress but visible scars—especially rolling scars that create waves or undulations in the skin. These types of scars are among the most stubborn and challenging to treat without professional help. Fortunately, advances in dermatology have made it possible to significantly reduce or even eliminate rolling scars with the right intervention.
When looking for the most effective Acne Scars Treatment in Islamabad, patients should understand what rolling scars are, how they differ from other types, and which treatments offer the best results for long-term skin restoration.
Understanding Rolling Scars
Rolling scars are a subtype of atrophic acne scars. They are caused by fibrous bands of tissue that pull the skin downward, creating a wavy or undulating appearance. These scars are typically:
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Wide (4–5 mm)
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Shallow to moderately deep
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Have sloped edges
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Most commonly found on cheeks or jawline
They often make the skin look uneven and older than it actually is due to texture distortion.
Why Are Rolling Scars So Hard to Treat?
Unlike post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or shallow boxcar scars, rolling scars are tethered to the underlying dermis. This means simple topical creams or superficial treatments won’t lift or correct the unevenness. Instead, effective treatment requires interventions that release fibrous bands, stimulate collagen remodeling, or add volume beneath the scar.
Top Dermatologist-Recommended Treatments for Rolling Scars
Below is a breakdown of the most effective professional treatments available in Islamabad for addressing rolling scars.
1. Subcision (Subcutaneous Incisionless Surgery)
Best for: Moderate to severe rolling scars
Procedure Overview:
Subcision is a minor surgical procedure where a special needle (Nokor or blunt cannula) is inserted beneath the scar to cut the fibrous bands pulling the skin down.
Benefits:
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Immediate improvement in skin texture
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Creates space for natural collagen production
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Can be combined with fillers for enhanced results
Downtime: Mild bruising and swelling for 3–5 days
Sessions Required: 1–3 spaced a month apart
2. Dermal Fillers (Temporary or Semi-permanent)
Best for: Rolling scars with volume loss
Procedure Overview:
After subcision, dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite can be injected to lift the depressed areas.
Benefits:
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Immediate visible improvement
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Stimulates collagen when using biostimulatory fillers
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Reversible in case of HA fillers
Downtime: Minimal; occasional swelling or bruising
Sessions Required: Every 6–12 months (depending on filler type)
3. Radiofrequency Microneedling (RF-MN)
Best for: Mild to moderate rolling scars
Procedure Overview:
This treatment uses fine needles to deliver radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis, promoting collagen remodeling while preserving the surface skin.
Benefits:
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Effective with minimal downtime
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Suitable for all skin types
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Smoothens skin from within
Downtime: 1–2 days of redness and swelling
Sessions Required: 3–6 sessions every 4 weeks
4. Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Best for: Severe skin texture irregularities
Procedure Overview:
This laser removes micro-columns of damaged skin and triggers healing, leading to tighter, smoother skin over time.
Benefits:
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Long-term skin tightening
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Excellent results for rolling and other scar types
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Improves both texture and tone
Downtime: 5–7 days of recovery, redness may last longer
Sessions Required: 1–3 sessions spaced 2 months apart
5. PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Best for: Adjunctive treatment to enhance healing
Procedure Overview:
Platelet-rich plasma derived from the patient’s blood is injected into the skin or applied post-laser to enhance healing and collagen production.
Benefits:
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Accelerates skin recovery
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Boosts treatment outcomes when combined with microneedling or subcision
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Natural and safe
Downtime: Minimal
Sessions Required: 3–6 monthly sessions
Combination Therapy: The Gold Standard
Rolling scars respond best to a combination of therapies. A dermatologist may design a custom plan that includes:
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Subcision + PRP
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Subcision + Fillers
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RF Microneedling + CO2 Laser
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Subcision + Laser + PRP
This multimodal approach ensures that the scars are not only released from the dermis but also that the collagen is rebuilt for long-term skin restoration.
What to Expect: Treatment Journey in Islamabad
Step 1: Consultation
Your treatment journey begins with a skin analysis and medical history review. A dermatologist will determine the type, depth, and distribution of your scars.
Step 2: Personalized Treatment Plan
A customized roadmap is created—this may include multiple sessions over 3–6 months depending on the severity of scarring.
Step 3: Procedure & Aftercare
Procedures are usually outpatient. Post-treatment care may involve:
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Gentle cleansing
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Use of sunblock
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Avoiding makeup for 24–48 hours
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Use of antibiotic ointments or prescribed topicals
Cost of Rolling Scars Treatment in Islamabad
Here’s a general price breakdown of popular procedures:
Treatment | Price Range (PKR) |
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Subcision | 15,000 – 25,000/session |
Dermal Fillers | 25,000 – 40,000/syringe |
RF Microneedling | 18,000 – 30,000/session |
CO2 Laser Resurfacing | 25,000 – 45,000/session |
PRP Therapy | 12,000 – 20,000/session |
Note: Costs may vary depending on clinic reputation, doctor’s experience, technology used, and scar severity.
Top Clinics and Dermatologists in Islamabad
Some of the leading clinics offering advanced acne scar treatments include:
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Dynamic Clinic Islamabad (F-8 Markaz)
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Cosmesurge International Hospital
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Dr. Armeela Clinic (G-8)
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Dr. Ayusha Aesthetics (F-10)
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Enfield Royal Clinic
Look for clinics that offer a dermatologist-led approach and prioritize patient safety.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
You are a good candidate for rolling scar treatment if:
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You are healthy with no active acne
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You are not on isotretinoin or recently stopped it (within 6 months)
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You understand the commitment required (multiple sessions, aftercare)
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You have realistic expectations
Precautions Before Treatment
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Avoid sun exposure 1–2 weeks before the session
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Stop using retinoids or exfoliants 5–7 days prior
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Inform your doctor of any medical conditions or medications
Side Effects and Risks
When performed by a qualified dermatologist, treatments are generally safe. However, possible risks include:
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Temporary swelling or redness
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Mild bruising or discomfort
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Hyperpigmentation (rare)
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Infection (very rare)
Always follow aftercare instructions strictly to reduce these risks.
Conclusion: Invest in Your Confidence
Rolling scars may be stubborn, but they are not untreatable. With the right Acne Scars Treatment in Islamabad, supervised by a skilled dermatologist, you can see a dramatic improvement in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
It’s essential to choose a medically accredited clinic, prioritize combination therapy over one-size-fits-all solutions, and remain patient throughout your healing process. Your journey to smoother, clearer skin begins with the right information—and the right professional.