Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat rolling and boxcar acne scars caused by fibrous bands that tether the skin to deeper tissue. These bands pull the skin downward, creating the depressed, uneven texture typical of acne scarring. Subcision works by using a small needle or blade inserted under the skin to break up these bands, releasing the scar and allowing the skin to rise back to a more level surface.
As the treated area heals, the body naturally produces new collagen, which helps fill in the space beneath the scar and further smooths its appearance over time. Subcision is often combined with other treatments, such as dermal fillers or laser resurfacing, to enhance results, especially for scars with more complex textures.
Recovery typically involves some bruising and swelling for a few days, but subcision is generally well tolerated and requires minimal downtime compared to more invasive procedures.