Arguably the worst part of having an acne flare-up isn’t the appearance of pimples. The scars that flare-ups leave behind are long-lasting and nearly impossible to cover with makeup. Thankfully, if you have an excessive amount of skin depressions due to these scars, there is hope available. Subcision is a minor surgical procedure that involves using a needle to reduce the appearance of these scars and get you the smooth skin you deserve. Schedule an appointment at McLean & Potomac Dermatology today.
What is Subcision?
Subcision is a minimally invasive surgical technique that is used to treat depressed or atrophic acne scars. It involves using a special needle-like device to break up the fibrous bands responsible for tethering the scar to the underlying tissue, allowing the skin to lift and fill in the depression.
What Does Subcision Address?
This technique can be used to treat a variety of acne scars. These include rolling scars, boxcar scars, and some types of ice-pick scars. In most cases, the procedure is done under local anesthetic and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
What to Expect
We will begin a subcision procedure by first numbing the skin with a local anesthetic. Then, a needle will be inserted beneath your skin and used to break up fibrous bands. The needle will be moved back and forth, the fibrous bands will be cut, and the scar will be released. At the end of the process, the incision will be closed with a small bandage or dressing.
Subcision Results
Subcision is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for acne scars. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, like laser resurfacing or dermal fillers. Little to no downtime is needed after the procedure, and in most cases, you should be able to resume your normal activities within a day or two of the procedure. Several sessions may be needed to give you the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is subcision and how does it treat depressed acne scars?
Subcision is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat deep, indented acne scars like rolling or boxcar scars. A specialized needle is inserted beneath the skin’s surface to cut and break up the rigid fibrous bands tethering the scar tissue to underlying structures, releasing the tension and allowing the skin to lift.
What should I expect during the actual procedure and is it painful?
The entire procedure is completed in just a few minutes during a standard office visit. To ensure complete comfort, your provider will thoroughly numb the target area with a local anesthetic before inserting the needle. Once the fibrous bands are released, the tiny puncture site is safely sealed with a small bandage.
What is the recovery process like and will I need multiple sessions?
There is minimal downtime required, and most patients comfortably resume normal activities within one to two days. While initial skin lifting is apparent early on, achieving optimal, smooth structural results typically requires a series of multiple scheduled sessions, which can also be combined with lasers or dermal fillers.
Schedule Subcision Treatments in McLean, VA, or Potomac, MD
If you have scarring on your face due to acne or other reasons, subcision treatments may be a good choice. This minor surgical technique can eliminate your scars and restore the smooth skin you deserve. Connect with our team at McLean & Potomac Dermatology to learn more today.
You can reach us by using the Klara app on this site or by dialing (703) 356-5111.
