Acne Scar Treatment Physician-Led Scar Revision at RE:BERRY Gangnam Seoul
Acne scars are permanent structural defects in the dermis that no topical cream or at-home device can correct. RE:BERRY Gangnam deploys a multi-modality acne scar treatment protocol combining Potenza RF microneedling for collagen induction, Juvelook PDLLA for volumetric scar filling, subcision for tethered scar release, and LDM ultrasound for accelerated healing. All treatments performed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh, from ₩490,000 per session, two minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
What Is Acne Scar Treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam?
Acne scar treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam uses Potenza RF microneedling, Juvelook PDLLA collagen induction, and subcision to achieve 35-60% measurable scar depth improvement across icepick, boxcar, and rolling acne scars, starting at ₩490,000 per session with only 24-48 hours of mild downtime and physician-performed protocols.
Acne scars form when severe inflammatory acne destroys dermal collagen and the body’s repair mechanism produces abnormal scar tissue instead of normal skin architecture. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Medical Director Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu classifies each patient’s scars using the ECCA (Echelle de Cotation Clinique des Cicatrices d’Acne) grading system and designs a customized acne scar treatment protocol that addresses each scar type with the appropriate technology. Icepick scars require high-energy point delivery at 2.5-3.5mm depth. Boxcar scars respond to broad-field RF at 1.5-2.0mm with subsequent PDLLA filling. Rolling scars need subcision to release fibrous anchoring bands before collagen induction can lift the depressed surface. Our multi-device approach combines Potenza RF microneedling for controlled thermal collagen remodeling, Juvelook poly-D,L-lactic acid microspheres for progressive volumetric scar correction over 8-24 months, subcision for tethered scar release, Ehlstone PTT for residual acne management, and LDM ultrasound for anti-inflammatory recovery. All treatments are physician-performed, documented with standardized progress photography, and supported by our 8-language international coordination team. RE:BERRY Gangnam operates 365 days a year with same-day appointments available.
Acne Scar Treatment Before and After at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Individual outcomes may vary.
How Acne Scar Treatment Works at RE:BERRY Gangnam
A comprehensive 4-step physician-performed protocol addressing every layer and type of acne scarring.
ECCA Scar Assessment & Protocol Design
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu examines your skin under high-magnification dermoscopy and cross-polarized lighting to identify and classify every scar. Each scar is mapped by type (icepick, boxcar, rolling, hypertrophic), depth (superficial <0.5mm, moderate 0.5-1.5mm, deep >1.5mm), and distribution zone. The ECCA grading score establishes your baseline for objectively measuring improvement. Based on this assessment, a personalized acne scar treatment plan is created with session count, device selection, and expected improvement percentages for each scar category.
Subcision for Tethered Scars
For rolling scars and tethered boxcar scars, Dr. Ryu performs subcision using a specialized Nokor needle or cannula inserted beneath the scar at the dermal-subdermal junction. This mechanically severs the fibrous bands that anchor the scar floor to deeper tissue, allowing the depressed surface to elevate. Subcision creates a pocket of controlled bleeding beneath the scar, and the resulting hemostatic response deposits a matrix that prevents re-tethering. Clinical data shows subcision combined with RF microneedling achieves 72.4% improvement versus 49.1% for subcision alone.
Potenza RF Microneedling for Collagen Induction
Potenza delivers bipolar radiofrequency energy through gold-tipped insulated microneedles at programmable depths from 0.5 to 3.5mm. The controlled thermal injury (60-70 degrees C) creates zones of coagulative necrosis that trigger the wound-healing cascade, upregulating TGF-beta, VEGF, and fibroblast growth factor for robust type I and III collagen deposition over 4-12 weeks. For icepick scars, the needle depth is set to 2.5-3.5mm for maximum deep-dermal remodeling. For boxcar scars, 1.5-2.0mm delivers broad-field energy to soften the sharp vertical walls. This precision is what makes Potenza the cornerstone of effective acne scar treatment.
Juvelook PDLLA Injection + LDM Recovery
Following RF microneedling, Juvelook (PDLLA microspheres in hyaluronic acid carrier) is micro-injected directly into the scar beds through the freshly created microchannels for enhanced absorption. The HA component provides immediate volumetric correction visible from day one, while PDLLA particles stimulate progressive neocollagenesis over 8-24 months as they undergo hydrolytic degradation. The session concludes with LDM (Local Dynamic Micro-massage) ultrasound at 3-10 MHz, which reduces post-treatment inflammation by 40-60%, promotes lymphatic drainage of cellular debris, and accelerates wound healing — enabling return to normal activities within 24-48 hours.
What to Expect from Acne Scar Treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam
- All Scar Types in One Protocol: Potenza RF’s adjustable 0.5-3.5mm depth combined with subcision and PDLLA injection addresses icepick, boxcar, rolling, and hypertrophic scars in a single comprehensive session.
- 35-60% Measurable Improvement: ECCA grading shows consistent 35-60% scar depth improvement after 2-3 sessions, with progressive collagen remodeling continuing for up to 24 months after final treatment.
- Minimal Downtime: 24-48 hours of mild redness only. No peeling, no crusting, no wound care. Makeup safe after 24 hours. Ideal for international visitors with limited time in Seoul.
- Safe for Asian Skin Types: Insulated gold-tipped needles bypass the epidermis entirely, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk to below 3% in Fitzpatrick III-VI patients.
- Progressive Long-Term Results: Juvelook PDLLA continues stimulating new collagen synthesis for 8-24 months after injection, meaning scars continue improving long after you leave the clinic.
- Physician-Performed Guarantee: Every acne scar treatment session is performed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh personally — never delegated to nurses, technicians, or trainees.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-2 | Mild redness and pin-point swelling at needle entry sites. Some patients notice slight bruising at subcision sites. Cool compresses recommended. Avoid makeup for 24 hours. |
| Week 1 | Redness fully resolves. Subcision bruising fades. Immediate HA-mediated volume from Juvelook begins settling into natural position. Skin feels smoother to touch. |
| Week 2-4 | Collagen cascade activates. Boxcar scar edges visibly soften. Rolling scars show early elevation from released tethers. Skin texture improvement becomes noticeable in daily photos. |
| Month 2-3 | PDLLA-stimulated neocollagenesis peaks. Atrophic scars show measurable volume gain on ECCA scoring. This is the optimal time for a second session to compound results. |
| Month 3-6 | Maximum scar remodeling from each session achieved. Cumulative improvement from multiple sessions reaches 35-60% depth reduction. Skin surface approaches normal texture. |
| Month 6-24 | PDLLA degradation continues stimulating low-grade collagen synthesis. Long-term results stabilize. Annual maintenance sessions recommended for severe cases to sustain optimal texture. |
Acne Scar Treatment Methods Compared
| Feature | Potenza RF + Subcision + Juvelook | Fractional CO2 Laser | TCA CROSS | Dermaroller |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | RF collagen + tether release + PDLLA fill | Ablative thermal zones | Acid cauterization | Mechanical micro-injury |
| Icepick Scars | ✓ (subcision + deep RF) | Moderate | ✓ (gold standard) | Not effective |
| Boxcar Scars | ✓ | ✓ | Partial | Mild |
| Rolling Scars | ✓ (subcision critical) | Moderate | Not effective | Mild |
| Hypertrophic Scars | ✓ (RF flattening) | ✓ | Not suitable | Not suitable |
| Downtime | 24-48 hrs | 7-14 days | 5-7 days | 2-3 days |
| PIH Risk (Fitzpatrick III+) | < 3% | 15-25% | 10-15% | < 5% |
| Sessions for Results | 3-6 | 3-5 | 3-6 | 8-12 |
| Price at RE:BERRY | From ₩490,000 | Consultation required | Consultation required | Consultation required |
Acne Scar Treatment Packages at RE:BERRY Gangnam
All prices in KRW. Non-covered medical service. Prices valid April-June 2026.
Potenza + Juvelook (or Exosome)
- Potenza RF microneedling (full face)
- Juvelook or Exosome application
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care
- Aftercare instructions in your language
Reberry Signature Acne Package
- Juberry 4cc skin booster
- Potenza Exosome (full face)
- Ehlstone PTT photodynamic therapy
- Aqua Peel deep cleansing
- Dermio Care post-treatment recovery
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Aftercare in 8 languages
Signature Smooth Texture Glow Package
- Potenza non-insulated tip (full face)
- Juberry 6cc skin booster
- Resistance-reducing Skin Boitox
- Re2O 1 syringe
- LDM recovery therapy
- Consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
Juvelook 4cc (Stand-Alone)
- Juvelook 4cc PDLLA microspheres
- Micro-injection into scar beds
- Consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- CEO, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Medical Director, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Revinas Official KOL (Key Opinion Leader)
- Ultherapy Prime Certified Physician
- License No. 131644
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Acne Scar Treatment
Peer-reviewed evidence supporting the mechanisms and clinical outcomes of multi-modality acne scar revision.
Pathophysiology of Acne Scarring
Acne scars develop when severe inflammatory acne (nodular, cystic) triggers excessive tissue destruction and abnormal wound healing. The inflammatory cascade activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade dermal collagen faster than fibroblasts can replace it, resulting in volume loss (atrophic scars) or excessive collagen deposition (hypertrophic/keloid scars). Jacob et al. (2001) established the foundational morphological classification still used today: icepick scars (narrow, V-shaped, deep — 60-70% of all acne scars), boxcar scars (round or oval with sharp vertical edges — 20-30%), and rolling scars (broad, shallow undulations caused by tethering of dermis to subcutis — 15-25%). Understanding this pathophysiology is essential for effective acne scar treatment because each scar type requires a fundamentally different intervention strategy.
Radiofrequency Microneedling: Mechanism of Action
Bipolar RF microneedling (Potenza) works through two synergistic mechanisms: mechanical micro-injury from needle insertion and thermal collagen remodeling from radiofrequency energy. The insulated gold-tipped needles deliver energy exclusively at the needle tip depth (0.5-3.5mm), sparing the epidermis and dramatically reducing PIH risk in Fitzpatrick III-VI skin. A landmark split-face RCT by Min et al. (2015) comparing RF microneedling versus fractional CO2 laser in 20 Korean patients with atrophic acne scars demonstrated equivalent scar improvement (Goodman-Baron grade improvement of 1.25 vs 1.30) but significantly lower adverse events with RF microneedling: 0% PIH versus 25% with CO2 at 3 months. The thermal injury zone activates the TGF-beta/Smad signaling pathway, stimulating dermal fibroblasts to produce type I and III procollagen over 4-12 weeks.
Subcision Plus RF: Synergistic Combination
Subcision addresses the mechanical pathology of tethered scars by severing fibrous bands that anchor depressed scar tissue to the underlying fascia. When performed immediately before RF microneedling, subcision allows the scar floor to elevate freely, and the subsequent RF-induced collagen matrix fills the newly created subcision pocket, preventing re-tethering. Bhargava et al. (2019) evaluated this combination in 40 patients with rolling and boxcar acne scars, reporting mean clinical improvement of 68.3% (physician assessment) and 73.1% (patient satisfaction) at 6 months after 3 combination sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. The synergy between mechanical release and thermal remodeling is the scientific rationale behind RE:BERRY’s multi-modality acne scar treatment approach.
PDLLA Microspheres for Long-Term Volumetric Correction
Poly-D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA) microspheres in hyaluronic acid carrier (Juvelook) provide both immediate and progressive scar correction. Upon injection, the HA delivers instant volumetric support, while PDLLA particles (15-45 micron diameter) initiate a controlled foreign body response that recruits macrophages and stimulates fibroblast-mediated neocollagenesis over 8-24 months. Unlike PLLA (Sculptra), the amorphous PDLLA structure degrades more uniformly, reducing nodule risk. A prospective study by Kang et al. (2021) in 45 Korean patients with moderate-to-severe atrophic acne scars reported mean improvement of 52.8% on the qualitative scarring grading system (QSGS) at 12 months after 2 sessions, with no granuloma formation and high patient satisfaction (mean 8.2/10).
Jacob CI et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001;45(1):109-117. doi:10.1067/mjd.2001.113451
Min S et al. Lasers Surg Med. 2015;47(8):613-619. doi:10.1002/lsm.22403
Bhargava S et al. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2019;12(1):36-43. doi:10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_135_18
Kang SJ et al. Dermatol Surg. 2021;47(6):e175-e179. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000002953
What Our Patients Say About Acne Scar Treatment
“I had deep boxcar scars on both cheeks from teenage acne. After 4 sessions of Potenza RF plus subcision at RE:BERRY, the improvement was dramatic — about 55% by my own estimation. Dr. Ryu adjusted the treatment parameters at every session based on how my scars were responding. That level of personalization is rare.”
“My rolling scars made my cheeks look uneven under any lighting. The subcision at RE:BERRY released the tethering, and over the following 3 months the Juvelook collagen built up and leveled everything out. My partner noticed the difference before I even told her about the treatment.”
“As someone with Fitzpatrick V skin, I was terrified of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from scar treatment. Dr. Oh used the insulated Potenza tips and I had zero PIH. The scars are noticeably shallower after just 2 sessions. I will return for a third.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Scar Treatment
Expert answers from RE:BERRY Gangnam’s scar revision specialists.
Potenza RF + Juvelook starts at ₩490,000 per session. The Signature Acne Package is ₩1,290,000 and the Smooth Texture Glow Package is ₩1,490,000. Stand-alone Juvelook 4cc is ₩340,000. Most patients need 3-6 sessions for optimal results, with total investment ranging from ₩1,470,000 to ₩2,940,000.
Yes, approximately 50-65% less expensive. Comparable RF microneedling sessions in New York or Los Angeles cost $800-1,500 (approximately ₩1,100,000-2,050,000) versus ₩490,000 at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Korean clinics also include post-treatment recovery (LDM, Dermio) in the package, which US clinics charge $200-400 extra for.
Icepick scars respond best to a combination of TCA CROSS (chemical cauterization of the scar base) followed by Potenza RF microneedling at 2.5-3.5mm depth. For very deep icepick scars (>2mm), subcision may be performed first to release any fibrous tethering. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Ryu selects the optimal combination based on scar depth assessment.
Most patients achieve 35-60% scar depth improvement after 3 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart. Mild scarring (ECCA grade 1-2) may respond in 2 sessions. Severe scarring (ECCA grade 4-5) typically requires 5-6 sessions. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu provides a personalized session plan at consultation.
For Asian skin types (Fitzpatrick III-V), Potenza RF is preferred because PIH risk is below 3% versus 15-25% with CO2 laser (Min et al., 2015). Both achieve comparable scar improvement, but Potenza requires only 24-48 hours downtime versus 7-14 days for CO2. For lighter skin types with very deep scars, CO2 may be considered.
Potenza RF: 24-48 hours of mild redness and micro-swelling. Subcision: possible bruising for 3-5 days at treated sites. No peeling, no crusting, no wound dressings. Makeup is safe after 24 hours. Most patients return to work and normal activities the next day.
Complete (100%) scar removal is not realistic with any current technology. However, 35-60% depth improvement is consistently achievable, and with 5-6 sessions, some patients reach 70%+ improvement. The goal is to make scars unnoticeable under normal lighting and smooth enough that makeup sits evenly.
Yes. Potenza RF microneedling’s insulated tips deliver energy exclusively at the needle tip depth, bypassing the melanin-rich epidermis. This makes it one of the safest energy-based acne scar treatments for darker skin tones, with PIH rates below 3% in published studies. RE:BERRY has treated patients from the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa with excellent safety records.
Subcision is a minor procedure where a needle is inserted beneath tethered scars to cut the fibrous bands pulling the skin surface down. It is essential for rolling scars and recommended for tethered boxcar scars. Not all acne scars require subcision — Dr. Ryu assesses each scar individually during consultation to determine if subcision would benefit your specific case.
RE:BERRY’s acne scar treatment protocol combines RF microneedling (Potenza), PDLLA collagen induction (Juvelook), and subcision — whereas laser-only approaches (CO2 fractional, Er:YAG) rely solely on ablative thermal energy. The multi-modality combination achieves higher improvement rates (35-60%) with lower downtime (1-2 days vs 7-14 days) and lower PIH risk.
Yes. You can fly the same day or next day after Potenza RF treatment. There are no altitude-related contraindications. If subcision was performed, wait 48 hours for bruising to stabilize before flying. RE:BERRY provides a travel-friendly aftercare kit with recovery cream, SPF, and instructions in your language.
Collagen remodeling from Potenza RF is permanent. Juvelook PDLLA continues stimulating new collagen for 8-24 months after injection. Once scars are filled with new collagen, the structural correction is permanent. However, natural aging and sun damage can gradually affect skin quality, so annual maintenance sessions are recommended.
Yes. Rejuran Healer (₩240,000 for 2cc) is an excellent complement to acne scar treatment. Rejuran’s PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) accelerates wound healing and improves overall skin quality. We recommend Rejuran 2 weeks after Potenza RF to enhance recovery and add hydration benefits.
Topical numbing cream (lidocaine 5%) is applied for 30-45 minutes before treatment. During Potenza RF, patients feel a warm prickling sensation rated 3-5 on a 10-point pain scale. Subcision involves local lidocaine injection and is virtually painless during the procedure. Mild tenderness at subcision sites lasts 1-2 days.
Acne treatment targets active acne (breakouts, inflammation, bacteria). Acne scar treatment addresses the permanent structural damage left behind after acne heals. Many patients need both: active acne control first, then scar revision once breakouts are stabilized. RE:BERRY can design a combined protocol for both.
A single session takes 60-90 minutes. For a complete 3-session protocol, you need 3 visits spaced 3-4 weeks apart (approximately 8-12 weeks total). Many patients schedule sessions during separate trips. Alternatively, if staying 4+ weeks, you can complete 2 sessions during one visit.
Yes. RE:BERRY Gangnam accepts walk-ins 365 days a year, 10 AM to 8 PM. Walk-in consultations are free and take 20-30 minutes. Treatment can often be performed same-day after consultation. For guaranteed scheduling, book via WhatsApp (+82-2-039-2822) or LINE.
Apply recovery cream 2-3 times daily for 5 days. Use SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning for 4 weeks minimum. Avoid sauna, pool, and intense exercise for 48 hours. No retinol, AHA, BHA, or vitamin C serum for 7 days. No alcohol consumption for 48 hours (increases bruising risk after subcision).
Yes, 100% of before-and-after photos are actual RE:BERRY Gangnam patients who provided written consent. Photos are taken under standardized conditions (same camera, lighting, distance, and angle) in our consultation room. No retouching, filters, or digital editing is applied.
Yes. Potenza RF microneedling can be performed on the back and chest. Back acne scar treatment uses larger tip handpieces and may require higher energy settings due to thicker dorsal skin. Pricing for body areas is discussed during consultation.
Three differentiators: (1) Multi-modality protocol combining 4 complementary technologies (RF + subcision + PDLLA + ultrasound) in a single session; (2) Physician-performed guarantee — Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh perform every treatment personally; (3) 14,000 sq ft facility with 30+ devices, not a single-device clinic.
No. Acne scar treatment is classified as a non-covered cosmetic medical service in Korea and is not covered by Korean national health insurance or international travel insurance. RE:BERRY accepts credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, UnionPay), cash (KRW), and wire transfer. No financing plans available.
Yes, but active acne should be stabilized first to prevent new scar formation during treatment. RE:BERRY’s Signature Acne Package (₩1,290,000) includes both acne management (Ehlstone PTT, Aqua Peel) and scar correction (Potenza, Juvelook) in one comprehensive protocol.
Pore treatment targets enlarged follicular ostia through perifolicular collagen contraction. Acne scar treatment addresses deeper structural defects (atrophic volume loss, tethered dermis). Many patients have both conditions simultaneously, and Potenza RF effectively treats both in the same session by adjusting needle depth.
RE:BERRY uses MFDS-approved Potenza (Jeisys Medical) for RF microneedling, Juvelook (HansBiomed) for PDLLA collagen induction, LDM (Wellcomet) for ultrasound recovery, and Ehlstone for PTT photodynamic therapy. All devices are genuine, manufacturer-supplied, and regularly maintained with documented calibration records.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Start Your Acne Scar Treatment Journey at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Book your scar assessment with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh at RE:BERRY Gangnam — 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10, open 365 days including holidays. Free consultation, same-day treatment available.
Book Your Acne Scar Consultation
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- ✓ Free consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ Gangnam Station area, Seoul
- ✓ No downtime treatments available
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available