Subcision for Scar Reduction
What Is Subcision?
Subcision is a minor surgical dermatological procedure used to treat
depressed or indented scars, especially acne scars.
It works by releasing fibrous bands beneath the skin that pull scars downward.
How Subcision Works
Depressed scars form when fibrous tissue tethers the skin to deeper layers.
Subcision cuts these fibrous bands, allowing the skin to lift and heal smoothly.
Procedure Steps
- Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area
- A special needle (such as a Nokor needle) is inserted under the scar
- The needle moves back and forth to break fibrous scar bands
- The released skin rises and collagen production is stimulated
Scars Best Treated with Subcision
- Rolling acne scars
- Some boxcar scars
- Depressed surgical or traumatic scars
- Tethered scars
Note: Ice-pick scars usually require other treatments such as TCA CROSS.
Benefits of Subcision
- Releases tethered scar tissue
- Improves skin contour and smoothness
- Stimulates collagen regeneration
- Long-lasting improvement
- Can be combined with other treatments
Combination Treatments
- Microneedling
- Fractional lasers (CO₂, Er:YAG, UltraClear)
- Dermal fillers
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- TCA CROSS
During the Treatment
- Duration: 15–45 minutes
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia
- Setting: Outpatient clinic procedure
Recovery & Downtime
- Day 1–3: Swelling and soreness
- Day 3–10: Bruising (common)
- 2–3 weeks: Skin settles
- 6–12 weeks: Collagen remodeling continues
Expected Results
- Visible improvement in scar depth
- Smoother and more even skin texture
- Gradual improvement over several months
Risks & Side Effects
- Bruising and swelling
- Mild pain or tenderness
- Temporary numbness
- Infection (rare)
- Scar widening (rare)
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Patients with depressed or rolling scars
- Healthy individuals with realistic expectations
- Those willing to accept temporary bruising
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Procedure Type | Minimally invasive |
| Best For | Rolling and tethered scars |
| Downtime | 5–10 days |
| Results | Long-term scar improvement |
| Sessions | 1–3 sessions (varies) |
