Treatment outcomes using subcision combined with platelet-rich plasma for atrophic acne scars: a study in Vietnamese patients

Backround Facial atrophic scars significantly impact self-confidence and quality of life. Recently, the combination of ­platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and subcision has been proposed as a potential treatment modality; however, clinical trial results remain inconsistent. Objectives To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of combining subcision with PRP therapy for the treatment of facial atrophic acne scars in Vietnamese patients. Methods A total of 44 patients with facial atrophic scars of grade 2 or higher were included in the study. Each patient underwent three treatment sessions using a combination of subcision and PRP at 4-week intervals. The patients were evaluated by three independent reviewers through a series of sequential photographs taken 1 month after the third treatment session. Results All patients presented with atrophic scars on the cheeks, predominantly mixed scars caused by acne (96%). At evaluation timepoints, the Goodman and Baron grading scale demonstrated significant improvement, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Following the treatment regimen of subcision combined with PRP, the majority of patients achieved good-to-excellent responses (96%) and reported satisfaction with the treatment outcomes (96%). Common side effects included pain (93%), mild swelling (41%) and erythema (34%), all of which were transient. The baseline severity of scars (Goodman and Baron) and the presence of rolling scars significantly influenced treatment efficacy (P < 0.05). Conclusions The combination of subcision and PRP is an effective and safe approach for the treatment of atrophic scars, providing significant improvement and high patient satisfaction.