Subcision Acne Scar Revision

Releasing what’s pulling the skin down

Some acne scars form fibrous bands that anchor the skin to the tissue beneath it. These attachments create depressions that can remain even when surface texture improves.

During subcision, a specialised needle or cannula is introduced beneath the skin through a small entry point. Your clinician carefully releases the bands holding the scar down, allowing the skin greater freedom to rise.

The healing response also encourages new collagen formation, which can further improve the scar’s appearance over time.

Why scar type matters

Subcision is particularly useful for rolling scars and other depressed scars with underlying tethering. It addresses a structural cause of the indentation that treatments focused on the surface may not fully resolve.

We examine your scars before recommending treatment, because similar-looking depressions can need different approaches.

Pitted skin & rolling acne scars

Pitted skin describes the dents or hollows left behind after acne. Subcision is particularly helpful for rolling scars, where underlying fibrous bands create a wavy, uneven appearance. Other types of pits, such as deep ice-pick scars, may need a different approach.

Tethered depressions

Some individual acne scars are held down by deeper attachments. Subcision may help when this tethering is a significant part of the scar’s appearance.

Mixed acne scarring

Many people have several scar types alongside uneven texture or post-acne marks. Subcision may form one part of a broader treatment plan, with other treatments addressing concerns it does not directly target.

How many sessions you’ll need

Some scars improve after one treatment, while others benefit from repeat sessions. We recommend the number and spacing according to the extent of tethering, your recovery and your response.

When to assess the change

Early swelling can temporarily make scars look fuller, so the immediate appearance is not the final result. Improvement becomes clearer as swelling settles, with further changes developing over the following weeks and months.

Building on the result

Subcision can improve scar depth, but it does not erase every scar or address every aspect of skin texture. Where appropriate, treatments such as microneedling, Matrix Pro RF microneedling, fractional laser or dermal filler may complement the release. We plan the sequence around your skin’s needs and recovery.

Before your appointment

Tell us about your medical history, medications, supplements and current or recent acne treatments, including isotretinoin. Let us know if you bruise easily, have a bleeding disorder or tend to develop raised scars.

Active acne or infection in the treatment area may need to be addressed first. Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.

What recovery may look like

Bruising, swelling, tenderness and temporary firmness can occur. Recovery varies with the area and extent of treatment, so allow flexibility around important events.

Caring for your skin

• Follow our instructions on cleansing and caring for the entry points.
• Use the skincare products recommended by your clinician.
• Check with our team before resuming makeup, retinoids, exfoliating acids or scrubs.
• Protect your skin from the sun with shade, a hat and broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when advised.
• Follow your clinician’s guidance on exercise, heat exposure and other skin treatments.
• Do not massage or manipulate treated areas unless instructed.

When to contact us

Contact our team if you develop worsening pain, increasing swelling, spreading redness, discharge, persistent lumps or unexpected numbness or weakness. Seek prompt medical advice if you develop fever or feel unwell.