What Is Subcision?

Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure used to improve depressed acne scars — the kind that form when scar tissue tethers the skin down, creating divots or pits.
It’s a targeted mechanical release of scar bands beneath the skin to free up the tether and help the surface rise.

How Subcision Works

✔ The provider numbs the area with local anesthesia so you stay comfortable.
✔ A small, specialized needle is inserted under the scar.
✔ The needle is used to break up the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward.
✔ This releases tension, allowing the skin to lift and smooth over time.

Since subcision works under the skin, it’s distinct from surface-only treatments like lasers or chemical peels.

Best Candidates

Subcision is typically recommended for:

• Rolling scars — wide, gently sloped indentations
• Tethered acne scars — where the skin appears “stuck” down
• People whose scars aren’t improved sufficiently with topical care or surface lasers alone

It’s usually not the first choice for ice-pick scars (very deep, narrow pits) or very shallow marks that respond to gentler treatments.

Treatment Plan

 Sessions:
Most people need multiple sessions to see noticeable improvement — often spaced weeks apart.

 Combination Care:
Subcision is frequently combined with other scar treatments such as fillers (for volume support), lasers (for texture), or microneedling (for collagen stimulation) to enhance results.

What It Feels Like

• Local numbing is applied first, so discomfort during the procedure is minimized.
• You may feel pressure or mild movement under the skin, not sharp pain.
• Afterward, some bruising and swelling at treated sites is common, typically resolving over several days.

Recovery & Aftercare

✔ Downtime: Mild to moderate bruising and swelling for a few days.
✔ Activity: Light activities are okay; avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours.
✔ Skincare: Gentle cleansing and sun protection are essential as the skin heals.

Avoid picking at scabs or exfoliating aggressively while skin is recovering.

Results Timeline

• Initial improvement is often visible once bruising and swelling go down.
• Scar texture continues improving over weeks as collagen remodels.
• Best results are usually seen after a series of treatments rather than a single session.

Benefits of Subcision

➡ Releases scar tissue tension so depressed scars lift
➡ Works at a structural level, not just on the surface
➡ Can make other treatments (like lasers) more effective afterward

Things to Know

✔ Subcision doesn’t eliminate all scars completely — it improves depth and texture.
✔ Results vary depending on scar type and individual healing.
✔ Bruising is common but temporary.
✔ Skilled technique matters a lot for natural results.

Quick Summary

Subcision is a targeted acne scar treatment that cuts scar bands beneath the skin to lift depressed scars. It’s usually one part of a multi-step scar improvement plan and works best for rolling or tethered acne scars.