Subcision

What is Subcision?

Subcision is a procedure of treating crater-like scars on the face, usually left behind by acne and chicken pox.

When acne ( pimples) heal, the skin under them undergoes scar formation, where fibrous bands will be binding the skin down resulting in crater-like and saucer shaped areas on the skin surface. Subcision procedure helps to break these fibrous bands which tether the skin, thereby lifting the skin upwards to the surface level, thus giving a better aesthetic appearance to the skin.

 

How is subcision done?

Subcision is done after numbing the skin with a local anaesthetic cream. A small sterile needle is inserted below each scar and is moved from side to side to break the fibrous bands holding down the scar. This results in a small blood clot under under the scar, which resolves in a week's time and causes the scar to lift up towards the skin surface.

 

How many sessions will I need?

In general, 4-6 sessions may be required depending on the extent, depth and age of the scars. Each session is done at an interval of 4-6 weeks.

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Does it hurt?

Subcision is done after anaesthetising the skin adequately with a local anaesthetic cream. You may feel mild pricking sensation at times.

 

What are the side effects of subcision?

There will be mild swelling and bruising lasting for 2-3 days after the procedure. In dark skin individuals, there is a risk of hyperpigmentation if they do not follow sun protection. These can be minimised by following our post procedure instructions.

 

Will subcision alone be enough to treat all my scars?

In general, acne scars require different modalities of treatment to get the best results. Subcision will help to elevate the scars to the surface. After this is achieved, we could further improve the texture and appearance by doing procedures like microdermabrasion, chemical peels and dermaroller. Each patient is different. We will assess each patient and advise the best modalities to improve your scars.