what is subcision?
Subcision is a specialized medical procedure designed to treat deep, tethered acne scars by releasing fibrotic scar tissue beneath the skin. Subcision is a minimally invasive scar-revision procedure that uses a fine needle or cannula to break up the fibrous bands pulling acne scars downward. By releasing these attachments, the skin is able to lift and remodel naturally while stimulating collagen production in the treated area.
Subcision is particularly effective for rolling scars and depressed scars that do not respond well to topical treatments or superficial resurfacing.
What types of scars does subcision treat?
Subcision is most effective for:
- Rolling acne scars
- Tethered, depressed scars
- Deep textural irregularities
- Long-standing acne scarring
Subcision is best combined with other modalities such as microneedling and laser therapy for comprehensive scar correction.
Benefits of subcision Treatment
Targets the structural cause of deep scars
Improves scar depth and skin smoothness
Stimulates natural collagen remodeling
Minimally invasive with controlled downtime
Our approach emphasizes natural skin restoration rather than overcorrection.
cost of dermal filler Treatment
Targets the structural cause of deep scars
Improves scar depth and skin smoothness
Stimulates natural collagen remodeling
Minimally invasive with controlled downtime
Our approach emphasizes natural skin restoration rather than overcorrection.
what to expect AFTER Treatment
Discomfort: minimal
Downtime: temporary bruising or swelling for 5-10 days
Results:
Initial improvement may be visible once swelling resolves
Continued improvement occurs over 6–12
Multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal correction
HOW TO PREPARE…
PRE-APPOINTMENT
Avoid scheduling an appointment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements if possible to reduce the risk of irritation or pinpoint bruising.
DURING APPOINTMENT
Your provider will assess scar depth, skin quality, and facial anatomy to determine if subcision is appropriate.
After local anesthesia, a fine needle or cannula is used to carefully release scar tissue beneath the skin.
Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common and typically resolve over 5–10 days.
POST-APPOINTMENT
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours
Avoid excessive heat (saunas, hot tubs, sun exposure) for 48 hours
Avoid blood-thinning medications or supplements unless prescribed
Avoid direct sun exposure without proper sunscreen.
Ready to Schedule?
If you’re still not sure, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified providers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Subcision is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat deep, tethered acne scars. A specialized needle or cannula is inserted beneath the skin to release the fibrous scar bands pulling the skin downward, allowing the skin surface to lift and smooth over time.
Subcision works by mechanically breaking the scar tissue that anchors deep acne scars to underlying structures. This process not only releases the scar but also stimulates new collagen production as the area heals, leading to gradual improvement in skin texture and contour.
Good candidates are adults with rolling or depressed acne scars that appear indented or tethered. Subcision is especially effective for scars that do not respond well to surface treatments alone. A consultation is required to determine if subcision is appropriate for your scar type and skin condition.
Results from subcision are long-lasting and often permanent, as the released scar tissue does not reattach. Continued collagen remodeling improves results over several months. Some patients may benefit from multiple sessions or combination treatments for optimal outcomes.
Downtime is moderate. Patients can expect swelling, bruising, and tenderness that may last 5–10 days, depending on the treatment area and extent of scarring. Makeup can typically be worn once the skin has healed, as advised by your provider.
After subcision, you should avoid:
- Strenuous exercise for 48–72 hours
- Excessive heat (saunas, hot tubs, sun exposure)
- Massaging or applying pressure to treated areas unless instructed
- Blood-thinning medications or supplements, unless prescribed
- Direct sun exposure without proper sunscreen
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E) for several days prior unless directed by your physician. Arrive with clean skin and follow all pre-treatment instructions provided during your consultation.
Subcision is generally well tolerated. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area before treatment, minimizing discomfort. Most patients report pressure or tugging sensations rather than pain during the procedure.
Yes, subcision is considered safe when performed by an experienced medical professional. As with any procedure, there are potential risks such as bruising, swelling, or temporary firmness, which will be discussed during your consultation.
Your treatment begins with a consultation and scar assessment. The area is cleansed and numbed, and a specialized needle or cannula is used to release the scar tissue beneath the skin. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, with continued improvement seen over the following weeks to months as collagen remodeling occurs.
