Evaluation of Acne Scars: How to Assess Them and What to Tell the Patient

The prevalence and emotional impact of acne scarring are underestimated by the medical community. Dermatology providers should be able to evaluate the acne scar patient and discuss treatment options. Important aspects of the patient history include current treatments, prior acne scar procedures, and the patient's goals for treatment. During the physical examination, the scars are assessed and classified by scar morphology and overall severity of scarring. Finally, a treatment plan is developed in which the most appropriate procedures are matched with the scars that will work the best. Helping the patient understand likely expectations for improvement will increase overall satisfaction.