Subcision for Acne Scars

Understanding Subcision for Acne Scars: A Dermatologist's Guide

Acne scars can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness for many individuals. Fortunately, advancements in dermatological procedures offer effective solutions for improving the appearance of acne scars. One such technique is subcision. In this article, we will delve into the world of subcision for acne scars, exploring what it is, how it works, its benefits, and what patients can expect from the procedure.

At Ambrosia Aesthetics, our chief dermatologist, Dr. Niketa Sonavane, carefully plans scar revision surgeries such as subcision for patients who will truly benefit from it.

She may recommend a combination Morpheus 8 MNRF treatment, GFC, Dermapen 4 microneedling treatment or the Venus Viva Treatment for a long term, multi-faceted skin rejuvenation.

What is Subcision?

Subcision is a minimally invasive dermatological procedure designed to treat depressed or atrophic acne scars. It falls under the category of scar revision techniques and is performed by dermatologists or trained medical professionals. Subcision is particularly effective for scars that have a tethered or anchored appearance, where the scar tissue pulls down the skin's surface, creating depressions.

How Does Subcision Work?

The subcision procedure involves the following key steps:

Anesthesia: 

To ensure the patient's comfort, a local anesthetic is applied to the treatment area, numbing the skin.

Insertion of a Needle or Cannula: 

A fine needle or cannula is then carefully inserted beneath the scar tissue. The dermatologist uses this instrument to gently break up the fibrous bands that are causing the depression. This process is known as "subcision."

Stimulation of Collagen Production: 

As the fibrous bands are released, the body's natural healing response is triggered. This leads to the production of new collagen, which helps to fill in the depressed areas, ultimately smoothing out the scar.

Benefits of Subcision

Subcision offers several advantages as a treatment for acne scars:

Minimally Invasive: 

Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it requires only small incisions or needle insertions, resulting in less downtime and minimal scarring.

Effective for Various Scars: 

It is effective for various types of acne scars, including rolling scars, boxcar scars, and some icepick scars.

Long-Lasting Results: 

The stimulation of collagen production leads to gradual but long-lasting improvements in the appearance of scars.

Minimal Downtime: 

Patients can typically return to their daily activities shortly after the procedure, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

What to Expect During and After Subcision

During the procedure, patients may feel a slight pulling or pressure sensation as the dermatologist works beneath the skin. Afterward, some redness, swelling, and bruising at the treatment site are common but usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients are advised to follow post-procedure care instructions provided by their dermatologist to optimize healing and results.

Conclusion

Subcision is a valuable tool in the arsenal of dermatological treatments for acne scars. Its ability to release tethered scar tissue and stimulate collagen production makes it an effective option for many patients seeking scar revision. As a dermatologist, you can offer this procedure to help your patients achieve smoother, more confident skin.

If you have any further questions about subcision for acne scars or would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact our clinic, Ambrosia Aesthetics. Our team of experienced nurses and our chief dermatologist is here to provide personalized care and guidance to all our patients on their journey to healthier, scar-free skin.