Why Subcision Is One of the Most Effective Treatments for Depressed Scars
Depressed scars, also known as atrophic scars, can leave a noticeable impact not just on your skin but also on your confidence. Whether caused by acne, injury, or surgery, these scars are often deep-set, creating uneven texture and shadowing that can be difficult to address with typical topical treatments. Enter subcision—a treatment that has been gaining attention for its effectiveness in smoothing out depressed scars and giving people back the smooth skin they’ve long wanted.
But what exactly is subcision, and why is it so highly regarded? Let’s break it down.
What Is Subcision?
Subcision treatment is a minor surgical procedure designed to treat depressed scars. It involves using a special needle, which is inserted under the skin to break up the fibrous bands of tissue that are pulling the scar down. Once these bands are released, the skin can naturally rise, reducing the appearance of the scar. Over time, the body produces collagen in the area, further helping to smooth out the skin.
It sounds pretty straightforward, but the process requires skill and precision to ensure the best results. The beauty of subcision is that it directly tackles the root cause of many atrophic scars—those fibrous bands of tissue.
How Does Subcision Work?
When you think of a depressed scar, imagine it as a little valley in your skin, held down by tight fibres beneath the surface. Topical treatments, while sometimes helpful, can only do so much. They might hydrate or improve the texture slightly, but they don’t get to the heart of the problem—the tethering beneath the skin.
This is where subcision steps in. During the procedure, a specialist inserts a fine needle under the skin, specifically targeting the scar. The needle is gently moved back and forth, breaking up those tough fibres that are pulling the skin down. Once those fibres are released, the skin starts to lift.
The process encourages new collagen production, which is key to healing and improving the overall texture of your skin.
What Types of Scars Can Subcision Treat?
Not all scars are created equal, and that’s important to remember when considering any treatment. Subcision is particularly effective for:
- Acne scars – particularly rolling or boxcar scars that create dips in the skin
- Surgical scars – where fibrous bands have formed under the skin
- Trauma scars – where the skin has healed with depressions
- Cellulite – in some cases, it’s even been used to reduce the appearance of cellulite dimples
If you’re wondering whether subcision could help with your scars, it’s worth consulting a dermatologist who can assess your skin and recommend the right course of action.
Why Is Subcision So Effective?
You might be thinking, “There are so many scar treatments out there—what makes subcision stand out?” Here are a few reasons:
- Directly targets the cause – Unlike topical creams or peels, which focus on the surface, subcision goes beneath the skin to tackle the root cause of depressed scars: the fibrous tissue pulling the skin down.
- Collagen production – By breaking up those fibrous bands, subcision also stimulates your body’s natural collagen production. Collagen is essential for skin healing and can help improve the texture over time.
- Minimal downtime – While the idea of needles might make you flinch, subcision is actually a relatively quick procedure with minimal recovery time. You might experience some bruising or swelling, but most people can return to their normal routine soon after treatment.
- Long-lasting results – Subcision doesn’t just provide a temporary fix. Once those fibres are broken, they don’t typically reform. Combine that with the increased collagen production, and you’re looking at a long-term improvement in your skin’s appearance.
- Works well with other treatments – One of the best things about subcision is that it can be combined with other treatments, such as laser therapy or microneedling, for even better results. Your dermatologist can tailor a treatment plan to your specific skin needs.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
So, what happens during a subcision treatment? If you’re picturing something out of a sci-fi movie, don’t worry—it’s much less dramatic than it sounds. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain, just a bit of pressure.
Once the area is numb, the dermatologist will use a special needle to target the scar. The treatment typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and number of scars being treated.
Afterwards, it’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising. These effects usually subside within a few days, though it can take a couple of weeks for everything to fully heal. You’ll also notice that the skin may not be perfectly smooth immediately after the procedure. It can take time for the collagen to build and the full results to appear, usually within a few months.
Is Subcision Right for You?
If you’ve been struggling with depressed scars and feel like nothing has worked, subcision might be a game-changer. However, like any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to have realistic expectations. Subcision can significantly improve the appearance of scars, but it won’t make them disappear entirely. It’s best suited for those with moderate to severe scars, and the results can vary based on the depth and type of scarring.
That said, if you’re looking for a treatment that targets the core problem of depressed scars and provides long-term improvement, subcision is certainly worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Depressed scars can be stubborn, and if you’ve spent years trying to find the right solution, subcision could be the answer you’ve been searching for. By addressing the root cause of the scarring and encouraging your skin to heal naturally, it offers long-lasting, noticeable results.
Have you been considering treatments for your scars? Why not book a consultation with a dermatologist to see if subcision could work for you? Your skin might just thank you for it.
