Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure that can help lessen the appearance of your acne scars. This treatment is best suited for deep, depressed scars that are pulled downward into your skin due to tiny fibrous strands of scar tissue attached to the scar’s base. Subcision involves cutting these fibrous stands, allowing the skin around the scar to rise to / or closer to the normal surface level of your skin.
Our Board-certified dermatologists at our Los Angeles office, Dr. Jalian and Dr. Fincher, can perform subcision for acne scars to help smooth the surface and lessen shadows caused by scar indentations.
Our dermatologists use subcision—also known as subcutaneous incisional surgery—to cut the scar tissue that is holding down the bottom of the scar. We will use a special tri-beveled needle to pierce your skin, then carefully cuts the fibrous strands of scar tissue. We can also use a thin cannula (small tube) to break up scar tissue.
By carefully cutting the scar tissue base – which is acting like a tether – the acne scar becomes less noticeable. The formation of collagen during the healing process helps keep your skin in its new position. With subcision for acne scars, there is both immediate improvement and extended improvement over a period of two to four months—and in some cases, up to a year—as collagen production and tissue remodeling continue.
Dr. Jalian or Dr. Fincher can provide local anesthesia for the subcision acne scar treatment session. Each scar is addressed individually, which means you will have more than one puncture site. We take care to cut the scar tissue without damaging nearby nerves or major blood vessels, and limit the number of scars treated in one session to avoid any significant swelling.
Treating acne scars is a process that takes time. While you may want to hurry your treatment along to see results sooner rather than later, we recommend multiple sessions—approximately three to four weeks apart—to allow your skin to heal. Slow, steady progress allows you to feel more in control of the results as your skin and scars are reassessed at each appointment.
As with any medical procedure, there is the possibility of rare complications with subcisions. There is a small risk of bleeding and bruising, but a cold pack can help keep bruising to a minimum, and any bruises should heal rapidly. Infections rarely arise, although if you notice lasting discomfort or pain, be sure to contact us as soon as possible.
You might feel temporarily numb in the treated area, as the tiniest of nerve endings can be disturbed or irritated. Sometimes small nodules can form under the treated skin due to bundles of collagen. Massaging the bundle typically helps it break down. Occasionally, a bundle will require steroid injections, but long-lasting nodules are rare. We will advise you on how to manage any complications, should any arise.
Once the scar(s) are more superficial, you may find that laser resurfacing will add continue the improvement. Fraxel is a go-to for smoothing the skin and helping diminish the appearance of scarring. Each patient is different and your treatment recommendations are carefully considered based on your ability to manage downtime, your skin type and color and of course, your budget.
Precision filler placement may be an option to further decrease the “depth” of the scar and reduce shadowing.
Acne scarring is not something you have to live with for the rest of your life. When you are ready for a change in your appearance, consider working with a board-certified dermatologist.
Subcision for acne scars in Los Angeles is only one of the many treatments that can improve your skin. Dr. Jalian and Dr. Fincher can assess your skin and create a personalized treatment strategy suited to you. Learn why we are a center for excellence, and call today to speak with a member of our team.
