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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October 23, 2021
Kat

I had subcision, dermapen and TCA cross under dr anil in london - I had 3-4 sessions over a year and it was the best choice I ever made. He?s a great doctor, not ridiculously overpriced and he isnt just after your money. I wanted botox but he said it wasnt the right time yet. I really trust him and I?m really grateful for the improvement in my acne scars. Happy to answer any questions, I have added a before and after. So difficult to replicate the lighting but I believe the after photo is obvious! Its realistic to expect perfection but I?m so happy with the results I have and happy to answer any questions

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January 22, 2014
Subscion

Pros:

Shallower scars
Not as noticeable scars
More self confidence

Cons:

2 days down time. With bandage on

I'm having excellent results and glad I did it. I was so scared and waited 1 year to make sure I needed this treatment. I researched on acne.org and found dr. Mamalak and dr Hansen in austin Texas!!!!iExcellent doctors , reduced the anxiety I was having and did an excellent job. Will post pictures so far if I can figure out how. It has now been 3 weeks and I'm still happy with the results. I know the collagen is still growing and is getting better and I'm more able to cover with makeup. I was surprised that it didn't hurt more I was mildly uncomfortable for about 2 days then I took off bandage and washed with nutogena extra mild liquid soap and covered with aquaphor . The brusing lasted about 7 - 10 days but it wasn't so bad that I couldn't go out. Sanova dermatology is the best I've found in austin Texas. I highly recommend these dermatologists as they know what their doing and are very honest with you. I had rolling scar. And 3 big acne scars done at once. It has been 1 month now and the results are so good. I will give it 6 months and then decide if I need anything more.
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mariemom
November 12, 2016
Can you please tell me the name if your doctor who performed this? Congratulations on the improvement!! I'm praying for the same.
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Foxychick
October 29, 2019

did the subcision leave a scar on the entry point?

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sab40
March 1, 2023
Hi,did have only one subcision?
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July 27, 2011

Pros:

Works amazingly well on rolling and dented scars.

Cons:

Does not work on boxcar scars.

I have a couple of dented rolling scars from acne and boxcar scars from chicken pox. I had just one subcision on both these scars. Rolling scars responded really well. I'd say about 80% improvement. Don't expect to see the results immediately. It takes time for the skin to level up. Give it about 2 months time to work. Downtime is 2-3 days. For working folks, you could return to work on Monday if you have the procedure on Friday. There are several positive and negative reviews about subcision in this forum which are posted under a week after the procedure. Anything under a month is too early. Scars could look better or worse during this period due to swelling. Boxcar scars, IMO, showed 0% improvement. But I'm still giving this procedure 5 rating as I was fully aware that boxcar scars wouldn't respond. The $700 that I paid included consultation fee from an earlier visit and excision of ice pick scars. This combo was way cheaper than the price my doctor quoted for lasers ($3K+).
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khtd
March 27, 2016
Can you please provide your doctor's name? thanks
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mariemom
November 12, 2016
Can you please give me the name of the doctor who performed this? Congratulations on your great improvement!!!!
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Foxychick
October 29, 2019

Is it subcision with some sort of filler or nano fat ? or just subsicion on its own.  And did the needle leave a mark on the entry point??

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March 17, 2009

Pros:

Very cost-effective and little down time expected. Subcision appears to make the most sense to me for the rolling scars that I have. The doctor goes right to the source of the problem and fixes it. TCA appears to be ideal for ice pick scars.

Cons:

Like most acne scar treatments, one treatment probably will not suffice.

I had subcision and the TCA Cross Method performed on my rolling and ice pick scars today by my dermatologist. After doing a lot of research on the internet, I decided that these two treatments were the best ones for my type of scarring. I found a terrific dermatologist five minutes from my home who was very gracious and understanding and explained everything very thoroughly to me.
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July 28, 2008

Pros:

Immediate improvement

Cons:

! week minimum downtime.

A very effective option if you have depressed scars oversmall areas. The only discomfort was the injections used to numb the areas that were to be 'subscisioned',and possibly the sound of the connecting tissues being cut, since you know its your own face but can't see or feel a thing! I'm very fair, so the blue marks on my face looked as if I'd been bashed in a street fight, but it took just 3 days to subside. I didn't need any of the painkillers that the doc gave me. The swelling took atleast 4 days to reduce. Now its been 9 days since the surgeru, and only the injection/needle puncture marks are very slightly visible, which infact look like old acne scars. The ice pick scars have gone totally, and I heard that the whole treated area looks even better after a month. Definetely worth it, if you have a good doctor.
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khtd
April 20, 2016
What is the name of your doctor? thanks
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January 11, 2008

Pros:

Effective for boxscar

Cons:

Open-wound for a few days but fade quickly

It doesn't hurt although it left some mark for a few days. Very effective and I would say my scar improved at least 60%. Highly recommneded.
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November 4, 2007

Pros:

regain confidence

Cons:

none

I have been performing subcision myself to 2 depressed rolling scars on my forehead and nose. I have done the procedure about 4 times now, and each time there has been an improvement..to the extent that the one on my nose is not now noiticeable with makeup. It was a case of trial and error, I dont think I was doing it right the first couple of times, as I didnt hear the'clicking' sound that you are supposed to hear. I would recommend this procedure absolutely.
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June 27, 2007

Pros:

My indented scar is flat again

Cons:

Bruising

I had this performed three days ago, and although I've heard you often need multiple treatments I am THRILLED with what I see now! I had one indented scar on my chin, it looked like a dimple - fairly shallow and I could cover it with make-up, but enough to really bother me. The area is still bruised, but the scar is completely flat now, with no indenting at all. This might be the swelling that comes along with the treatment, but after all it's been 3 days! I am SO glad I did this - I went to another derm who tried to sign me up for VBeam and Restylane, which total would have been about $1000. This is much cheaper, and did EXACTLY what I wanted, which was to heal a scar that had healed improperly in the first place. So I say try subcision! If it doesn't work out for you, you can always go back for pricier treatments.
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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