It’s always a relief for acne sufferers when they find effective treatments to eliminate their acne. However, even though they found a way to prevent breakouts, it doesn’t necessarily mean their old acne scars are gone. This article discusses a procedure former acne sufferers may want to consider in order to remove the residual effects of their skin blemishes.
Subcision Defined
Subcision is a procedure that dermatologists use to treat rolling scars, along with other types of scars left behind on the skin from acne breakouts. The technique involves using a sharp instrument to break apart, or subcise, firm scar tissue that bind down the top skin layers to underlying tissue below the surface of the skin. During the procedure, a filler material such as hyaluronic acid may be injected into the opened spaces to help stimulate the body to produce collagen to fill in any gaps.
How is it Used?
Subcision is often used to treat acne scarring and cellulite. It is sometimes combined with other treatments such as laser or microneedling procedures to reduce scars such as pockmarks. Subcision is becoming more and more popular for the treatment of acne scars since the results are often so superior to other methods such as chemical peels or other treatments.
How is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure itself usually takes about 30-60 minutes. A dermatologist will begin by injecting a local anesthetic in the treatment area in order to numb the tissue. The dermatologist will then insert the specially designed subcision needle under the scarred area and move it back and forth in order to break the tissue layers free from each other. Patients may feel a pulling or poking sensation, but aside from pressure most report the procedure is pain-free.
If a patient needs to come back for additional treatments, the sessions will be spaced at least 4 weeks apart in order to give the skin time to heal.
Side Effects
The common side effects for subcision treatments include bruising, swelling, and tenderness of the treated skin. Ice packs can be applied after the procedure to reduce swelling, and some dermatologist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling, as well as an antibiotic to prevent infection.
Results
Most side effects should be gone about a week after a patient’s last treatment. The majority of patients report they are happy and satisfied with the results of their treatment. If you would like to know more subcision treatments, please contact my office to set up your consultation.
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