Subcision
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Subcision is a procedure in which a doctor uses a needle to probe under an acne scar, releasing the binding connections of the...

Subcision is a procedure in which a doctor uses a needle to probe under an acne scar, releasing the binding connections of the deeper tissues. This causes a controlled trauma underneath the scar that will lead to wound healing and the formation of new collagen, helping to even the sunken scar with the skin’s surface.

This procedure is normally repeated 1-3 times in 2-week intervals, and you should see gradual results with each session. And after your last session, your skin should continue to improve.

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3.4
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5
23.1%
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26.9%
3
25%
2
13.5%
1
11.5%

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December 13, 2017
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I have really great experience with this treatment and not any fear in my mind now.
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January 26, 2011

Pros:

I seems to have lifted the depressed scar. Not painful and only took about 15 minutes.

Cons:

Some mild bruising and swelling. I had this done late in the afternoon and was able to easily cover with make up and go to work the next day

I'm giving this a 4 even though it's only been 6 days. The swelling is gone and it does seem to have lifted the depressed scar. My doctor only wanted to do one to see how well it would work. Also, she did not charge for this one, so I have no idea how much she will charge to have this procedure for other scars.
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Foxychick
October 29, 2019

Does subscion leave a scar on entry point??? Im afraid it might 

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September 22, 2009

Pros:

I had fantastic results from the subcision combined with the fraxel laser treatment.

Cons:

It hurt a little bit. I was mentally prepared, having read a lot about it and wanting the procedure done badly enough, but I could see a teenage-me having trouble with it.

I have wanted to have my scars removed since I was 13 and waited until now (23) till my acne mostly went away. I had a variety of ice-pick, boxcar, and rolling scars as well as enlarged pores. I did a lot of research and found the right doctor for me online - his website is [link removed]. He predicted a 45-75% increase and was very honest about what I could expect. I tried not to get my hopes too high, but after the first subcision/fraxel/tca cross I was delighted. I've had 1 TCA Cross, 2 Subcision, and 3 Fraxel. I have been done with subcision now for about two months and have 1 Fraxel treatment left. The price I listed as what I paid is just for one subcision treatment.
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khtd
April 20, 2016
Jacqui, can you please provide the name of your doctor? thanks
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March 21, 2008

Pros:

actually works

Cons:

bloody

I went ahead and purchased 100 nokor needles and have been doing my own subcision. This is serious stuff. Dificult positions and bloody etc. I can tell it works but I think best left to a surgeon.
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December 19, 2007

Pros:

Improves shallow, rolling scars a lot, esp paired with a laser treatment soon after.

Cons:

The marks left from it take a while to fade (at least on asian skin).
They look like acne in the beginning and then take as long as acne to fade. (hyperpigmentation)

Overall, a good treatment. Just expect to look like you have acne again for a while afterwards.
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December 26, 2006

Pros:

cheap and affective

Cons:

takes time and bruising

I have been doing subcision on myself for a few months. It actually doesnt really hurt as the scar tissue has no nerves. One neednt go so deep either. This and rose hip seed oil. DMSO for the bruising and weekly saline injections. There has been a 50% improvement and it seems to get better on its own. People have commented on the improvement. Rose hip seed oil gives a nice tan like cover which is more natural than the sunless tanning I have used. I grind down a X-acto blade to 1/8" and use a fresh one each time.
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October 30, 2006

Pros:

very cheap cheap

Cons:

painfull risk of infection so take keflex or other antibiotic for staf ect

start with piston motion n go to sweaping motion when resistens lessons. dont go to wide or donut/pin coushon could form. free neddles for junkies at chem/hospital in oz dont know about yours. clean area well first and wipe with swobs that come with needles. havent tried it myself but that is how it is done. im a seeing a derm/ps in 2 months keep u all posted.
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Relevant Forum(s):

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website