Subcision Acne Scar Treatment
How Subcision Treats Acne Scars
Acne scars can vary in appearance and severity, each requiring different treatment approaches. Subcision is a specific technique used to address certain types of acne scars by targeting the underlying structural issues.
Types of Acne Scars
Ice Pick Scars
Deep, narrow scars that penetrate into the dermis. They resemble small, pitted holes.
Boxcar Scars
Broad, depressed scars with defined edges, often resulting from the loss of tissue in a specific area.
Rolling Scars
Shallow, wide scars with a rolling appearance due to fibrous bands that tether the skin to deeper tissues.
Subcision is a minimally invasive dermatological procedure specifically designed to treat acne scars, particularly those that are depressed or pitted. Subcision is an effective technique for treating depressed acne scars by breaking fibrous bands and stimulating collagen production. Its minimally invasive nature, combined with the benefits of improved scar texture and long-term results, makes it a valuable option for individuals seeking to enhance the appearance of acne-scarred skin. A consultation with a qualified dermatologist will help determine if subcision is suitable for your specific scar treatment needs.
Benefits:
1. Effective for depressed scars
Subcision is particularly effective for these types of scars because they are caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin down. The procedure releases these bands, allowing the skin to rise and smooth out. It can also improve scars from surgeries or injuries if they are tethered down by underlying tissue.
2. Immediate Improvement
Right after the procedure, the release of the fibrotic bands may show immediate improvement in scar depth. However, the full effect continues to develop as collagen rebuilds.
3. Stimulates Collagen Production
Subcision stimulates the production of collagen in the treated area. This helps to further fill in and smooth the scar over time, leading to more lasting improvement.
4. Minimal Downtime
The procedure is minimally invasive, usually performed with local anesthesia, and typically has a short recovery time, with many patients returning to normal activities within a few days.
5. Long Lasting Results
Once the fibrotic bands are broken, they usually do not reform, so the results of subcision tend to be long-lasting, especially when supported by collagen regeneration over time.
How does it work?
Procedure Overview
During subcision, a specialized needle or cannula is inserted into the skin through a small incision or entry point. The needle is then maneuvered beneath the scar tissue.
The needle is used to disrupt the fibrous bands of scar tissue that are tethering the scar to the underlying tissues. This action releases the scar from the deeper skin layers.
Mechanism of Action
Acne scars often have fibrous bands of tissue that pull the scar down into the deeper layers of the skin. By breaking these bands, subcision helps to release the scarred tissue, allowing it to rise and flatten out.
The procedure creates controlled trauma to the skin, which stimulates the body’s natural healing response. This process promotes the production of new collagen and elastin in the treated area. The newly formed collagen helps to fill in and smooth out the treated scars over time, leading to a more even skin surface.
Subcision is suitable for various types of depressed acne scars, including boxcar scars and rolling scars.
Procedure
Local anesthesia is administered to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Subcision
The needle or cannula is inserted into the skin, and the fibrous bands are broken apart. The treatment is usually completed within 30 to 60 minutes.
Aftercare
Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and redness, which generally resolve within a few days. Applying ice, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and following aftercare instructions are crucial for optimal healing.
Initial Treatment Series
Usually, 1 to 3 sessions are recommended for optimal results, depending on the severity of the scars and individual response to treatment. Sessions are typically spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart. This interval allows for proper healing and evaluation of the results between treatments.
Maintenance Treatments
After the initial series, additional maintenance treatments may be considered if needed, usually spaced 6 to 12 months apart, depending on the ongoing results and skin condition.