An effective extraction technique for the treatment of closed macrocomedones

Dermatol Surg. 2003 Jul;29(7):741-4. doi: 10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29190.x.

Abstract

Background: Closed macrocomedones are unsightly lesions that may be resistant to medical treatments and comedone extractors. Light cautery has been used to treat macrocomedones, which are 1 to 3 mm in size; however, its success in larger and chronic lesions is limited.

Objective: To introduce an alternative treatment technique for this neglected problem.

Methods: We treated these lesions by using cautery and standard dissecting forceps. After puncturing the macrocomedones in the center using the sharp-tipped cautery point, we grasped the base of the comedone using standard dissecting forceps and squeezed and pulled out the contents.

Results: Twelve patients were treated with this technique, all of whom tolerated the procedure well and judged the cosmetics results as very good.

Conclusion: We recommend this procedure for patients who have closed macrocomedones larger than 3 mm in size, although it is an effective treatment for macrocomedones of any size.

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / surgery*
  • Cautery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Surgical Instruments
  • Treatment Outcome