Acne & Scar Treatments
Subcision for Acne Scars
Some depressed acne scars, particularly rolling scars, are pulled down by fibrous bands that connect the skin to deeper tissue. Subcision is a minor in-clinic procedure in which a special needle or blunt cannula is passed under the scar to release these bands, allowing the surface to lift and encouraging new collagen to form in the treated space. It works best for tethered scars and is less helpful for narrow ice-pick scars, which usually need other approaches. Subcision is often one step in a combined plan with treatments such as microneedling, lasers or fillers. Active acne should be controlled first. Suitability is decided after Dr. Areej Albisher has assessed your scar types, and improvement is usually partial and varies between patients.
May help with
- Rolling acne scars
- Tethered depressed scars
- Selected boxcar scars
- Some depressed scars from other causes
Treatment areas
- Cheeks
- Temples
- Other facial areas with tethered scars
What to expect, recovery and risks
Local anaesthetic is used. Bruising and swelling are common and may last one to two weeks, so social downtime should be planned. Risks include prolonged bruising, temporary lumps, infection, post-inflammatory pigmentation and, rarely, bleeding or nerve irritation. One to several sessions may be recommended, often spaced weeks apart, with improvement assessed after healing.
Common questions
Which scars respond best to subcision?
Rolling or tethered scars that soften when the skin is gently stretched tend to respond best. Ice-pick scars usually need other techniques.
How long is the bruising?
Bruising commonly lasts around one to two weeks, though it varies. Avoiding certain supplements and medicines beforehand may be advised if medically safe.
Will one session be enough?
Some patients need more than one session, and many benefit from combining subcision with other scar treatments.
Availability & booking
Subcision for Acne Scars is available with Dr. Areej Albisher in Dubai and Riyadh. Suitability and the treatment plan are decided after an in-person medical assessment.
This information is for general education and is not a diagnosis or medical advice. Results and suitability vary between individuals.