Subcision is commonly used to treat atrophic (indented) scars, including:

• Rolling acne scars
• Depressed acne scars
• Chickenpox scars
• Certain surgical scars
• Traumatic scars
• Other tethered or sunken facial scars

Subcision is especially effective for scars that appear bound down beneath the skin rather than raised above the surface.

Many patients with acne scarring are good candidates for subcision treatment. During your consultation at Biscayne Dermatology, Dr. Shagalov and team will evaluate your skin, scar type, skin texture, and treatment goals to determine whether subcision is appropriate for you.

Subcision may be performed alone or combined with complementary acne scar treatments for enhanced results, including:

• Saline
• Sculptra
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or PRFM (Platelet-rich fibrin matrix)
• Microneedling
• Laser resurfacing
• Dermal fillers

Subcision is frequently combined with Sculptra or PRP to further stimulate collagen production and improve overall skin texture and scar remodeling.

Subcision works by mechanically releasing the fibrous scar bands located beneath depressed scars. These bands tether the skin downward and create uneven texture.

Once the scar tissue is released:

• The skin can elevate naturally
• Collagen production is stimulated
• Volume loss beneath the scar improves
• Skin texture becomes smoother over time

Because collagen remodeling continues after treatment, improvement develops gradually over several weeks to months.

Subcision is performed in-office at Biscayne Dermatology and is generally well tolerated.

During treatment:

• Local anesthetic is used to maximize comfort
• A fine specialized instrument is inserted beneath the scar
• The tethered scar tissue is carefully released
• No stitches or surgical incisions are required
• The procedure typically takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size and number of scars being treated.

Recovery after subcision is usually mild with minimal downtime.

Common temporary side effects include:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Mild soreness

Most patients return to normal daily activities within one to two days, though bruising may remain visible for up to one to two weeks.

Dr. Shagalov and team will provide personalized aftercare instructions to help support healing and optimize results. Sun protection is especially important following treatment.

Results from subcision develop gradually as collagen forms beneath the skin.

Many patients begin noticing visible improvement within several weeks, with continued smoothing and refinement occurring over the following months. Depending on the severity of scarring, multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal improvement.

Combining subcision with treatments such as Sculptra, PRP, microneedling, or laser resurfacing may further enhance outcomes.

When performed by an experienced and highly trained dermatology professional, subcision has an excellent safety profile.

Side effects are typically mild and temporary, most commonly including:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Tenderness

Serious complications are uncommon. Choosing an experienced provider is important to ensure safe treatment and optimal cosmetic results.

At Biscayne Dermatology, Dr. Devorah Shagalov and team take a personalized, comprehensive approach to acne scar treatment. Because every scar pattern is unique, treatment plans are customized based on scar type, skin quality, downtime preferences, and long-term aesthetic goals.

Our Miami dermatology practice offers advanced medical and cosmetic dermatology treatments using evidence-based techniques designed to improve skin texture, stimulate collagen production, and restore confidence.