What it is
Scar tissue is collagen that has matted from the surface to the deep dermis. The Pinhole technique uses the UltraPulse laser to drill a dense field of micro-holes through that tissue, so that healing rebuilds the scar from the inside out rather than resurfacing only the top. Yonsei Star began burn-scar work in 2002 and developed the method here; it is the clinic's signature technique.
Three variants
Pinhole (standard and Ultra) is Dr. Lee Sang-joo's protocol. Mild Pinhole treats the whole field more lightly with Starlux and similar platforms. Pinhole Alpha, Dr. Kang Jin-moon's protocol, treats hypertrophic and thick scars more strongly with UltraPulse. The choice depends on the scar's depth, adhesion, colour, thickness and treatment history — not on its name.
Sessions and recovery
Sessions are spaced at least a month apart, typically four to six months for large areas; a palm-sized area takes about forty minutes. Gauze for the first day or two, then a hydrocolloid dressing changed every two to three days. Scabs are left to fall. Realistic targets are 70–80% improvement over a course; complete erasure is not promised.
Questions
Does the scar get worse before it improves?
Redness and crusting are part of the healing response and settle; the structural change shows over the following months.
Is it painful?
Local anaesthesia is used; the treatment itself is tolerable. Discomfort afterwards is managed with dressings and, where needed, medication.
Why the clinic's name comes up for scars
The technique was developed here and the physicians have published on it; a high share of patients arrive after treatment elsewhere.
The information on this page is general and is not medical advice. It does not replace consultation with a dermatologist. Every procedure carries risk, suitability differs between individuals and an outcome cannot be guaranteed. Prices are the clinic’s list prices, exclude VAT where it applies, and are confirmed at consultation.
Yonsei Star DermatologySinchon · Seoul · since 2002
