What is subcision?

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure used for treating depressed cutaneous scars and wrinkles. It is also called subcutaneous incisional surgery.

Subcision is performed using a special hypodermic needle inserted through a puncture in the skin surface. The sharp edge of the needle is used to break fibrotic strands that are tethering the scar to the underlying tissue.

The release of the fibrotic strands and new collagen deposition caused by wound healing leads to cosmetic improvement of the scar. Subcision can be safely performed in the outpatient setting and is usually well tolerated.

What are the indications for subcision?

The decision to perform subcision will depend on the type, location, and severity of scarring; patient preference and expectations; and clinician experience and expectations.

Subcision may be used for the treatment of :

Depressed skin grafts
Depressed distensible scars (due to acne, trauma, surgery)
Depressed bound down scars (due to chicken pox, trauma, surgery)
Wrinkles
Cellulite dimples

How many treatments are required?

Individuals vary in their ability to form collagen (scar tissue). The number of subcisions required to correct a depression will depend on the type, location, severity of depression, and intensity of treatment.

Three to six visits suffice for the majority of cases of moderate scarring. Intervals of at least one month in-between treatments are generally recommended.