Combined use of microfocused ultrasound and a calcium hydroxylapatite dermal filler for treating atrophic acne scars: A pilot study

ABSTRACT

Background: An unfortunate consequence of severe acne is scarring, which can have serious psychosocial consequences. Available methods for treating acne scars have varying degrees of effectiveness. Objective: This nonrandomized, retrospective pilot study assessed the safety and effectiveness of combining microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V; Ultherapy^®) and a calcium hydroxylapatite dermal filler (CaHA; Radiesse^®) for treating atrophic acne scars. Methods: Healthy subjects 35–55 years old with moderate-to-severe facial acne scars were enrolled. MFU-V was applied bilaterally using two transducers with focal depths of 3.0 and 1.5 mm. Using a cross-hatch pattern, 75 treatment lines were applied 2–3 mm apart. Immediately afterward, the same areas were injected with 1.5 mL of CaHA diluted with 1.5 mL of lidocaine 2% without epinephrine. Scar severity changes were assessed by two independent physicians using the Goodman Acne Scar Scale at post-treatment Day 90. Subject satisfaction was assessed with a questionnaire. Results: Treated subjects (N = 10) achieved significant overall improvement in baseline acne scar severity (P = 0.002). When stratified by severity, a clear trend was apparent with the greatest improvement observed among subjects with severe scars. Subjects were very satisfied (n = 9) or satisfied (n = 1) with their aesthetic results. No adverse events were observed. Conclusions: Combining MFU-V and diluted CaHA is effective for treating atrophic acne scars.

KEYWORDS:

• Atrophic acne scars
• microfocused ultrasound
• calcium hydroxylapatite filler
• pilot study

Acknowledgments

The author thanks Dr. Paula Marchese and Dr. Thais Bello for support in assessing the treatment outcomes and acknowledges the editorial assistance of Dr. Carl S. Hornfeldt during the preparation of this manuscript with funding provided by Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. The author is a speaker for Merz and Allergan but has no conflicts of interest to disclose related to the present study.