What is Subcision & Why It’s Effective?
Subcision is a minor surgical technique specifically designed to treat depressed (rolling) acne scars. A sterile needle is inserted beneath the scar to carefully sever the fibrous bands that pull the skin downward. Once released, the skin rises to create a smoother surface.
Subcision is often combined with fillers, microneedling, or laser treatments for comprehensive scar improvement.
How Subcision Works
Depressed acne scars (especially rolling scars) are held down by fibrous bands of scar tissue that tether the skin to deeper structures. Subcision works by:
- Releasing the bands — A sterile hypodermic needle is inserted parallel to the skin surface and moved back and forth to cut the fibrous bands.
- Creating a controlled injury — The cutting action stimulates a healing response, promoting new collagen formation.
- Blood pooling — A small hematoma (blood pool) forms beneath the released scar, acting as a natural filler that lifts the skin further.
- Collagen remodeling — Over the following weeks, new collagen forms to maintain the lifted position.
Types of Acne Scars Treated by Subcision
| Scar Type | Subcision Effective? | Best Combined With |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling scars | Highly effective | Fillers, microneedling |
| Boxcar scars | Moderately effective | Laser resurfacing, peels |
| Ice pick scars | Less effective | Punch excision, TCA cross |
| Tethered scars | Highly effective | Fillers |
The Procedure at Dermacian
- Consultation & Assessment — Our dermatologist examines your scars, identifies the types, and creates a treatment plan.
- Numbing — Topical numbing cream is applied for 30–45 minutes. Local anesthesia may be injected for deeper treatment.
- Subcision — A sterile needle is inserted beneath each scar to release the fibrous bands. You may feel a slight snapping sensation.
- Post-treatment — The area may be bruised and slightly swollen. This is normal and resolves in 5–7 days.
- Combination treatment — We may immediately follow with fillers, PRP, or microneedling for enhanced results.
The procedure takes 30–60 minutes depending on the number of scars treated.
Is Subcision Right for You?
Subcision is ideal for:
- Rolling acne scars that improve when skin is stretched
- Depressed scars tethered to deeper tissue
- Patients seeking significant texture improvement
- Those who want combination scar treatment
- People with moderate to severe acne scarring
- Patients who haven’t seen results from topical treatments
Recovery & Aftercare
- Days 1–3: Bruising and swelling are normal. Apply ice packs and take prescribed medication.
- Days 5–7: Bruising typically fades. Skin begins to look smoother.
- Weeks 2–4: Initial improvement is visible as swelling resolves.
- Months 1–3: Full results appear as collagen remodeling continues.
- Sun protection: Apply SPF 30+ daily to prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation.
- Sessions: Most patients need 2–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results.
Key Benefits
The Procedure at Dermacian
Scar Mapping
Depressed scars are identified and marked for targeted release.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia or numbing cream is applied.
Subcision
A fine needle breaks the fibrous bands tethering the scar down.
Optional PRP / Filler
PRP or filler may be added to support collagen and volume.
Why Choose Dermacian Jaipur?
Doctor's Note
"Subcision is essential for rolling scars because it physically releases the bands pulling the skin down. It is often combined with other treatments."
— Dr. Vivek Rungta, Dermatologist & Hair Transplant Specialist