Subcision for scars | Dr Anastasia Therianou MD, PhD
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Subcision for scars

February 24, 2023
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One of the main reasons for scarring is acne, an inflammatory disorder of the skin which results in clogged pores and produces pimples. Acne doesn’t just cause a problem above the skin but below it, too. During a flare up, the deeper layers of the skin become inflamed, resulting in scarring.

What is subcision? Ηow does subcision work?

In some cases, acne may leave you with “rolling acne” scars; dips in the skin caused by the base of the scar being attached to deeper layers of the skin which pulls it inwards. Subcision is the best form of treatment for this type of scar.

Subcision is a minor in-office surgical technique used to treat acne scars. It involves the insertion of a needle beneath the skin to break up the fibrous bands of tissue that are causing the scarring. This way, it allows your skin to rise and diminish the acne scar.

Although subcision is most often used to treat acne scars, it may also help reduce scars caused by other conditions, like: chicken pox, wounds, surgery, scars or even cellulite.

Dr Anastasia Therianou and her team has extensive experience in the management of acne and acne scars. Recently, Dr Anastasia acted as a principal investigator in a large national study about an acne treatment known as Safa study.

What is the procedure?

Before surgery, you will be given a local anaesthetic. A hypodermic needle is inserted underneath the scar to cut the fibres which are pulling it downwards. Your body will then automatically increase collagen production to heal the wound and lift the skin, with the wound expected to heal in around six to ten weeks.

Immediately after the surgery, icepacks will be placed on the wound to help reduce any swelling, but you should expect a degree of bruising and swelling for a few days afterwards whilst our sterile technique minimises any risk of infection.

How long does it take to see the results from subcision?

The results of subcision can be immediately visible sometimes. Usually, there is quite a lot of swelling from the anaesthetic. This can take a day or two to settle. The results are usually seen within 1 to 3 months.

Subcision aftercare

We will discuss all aspects of aftercare with you. Some of the most important aftercare advices are:

For the first 24-48 hours after the procedure, it is normal to feel slightly sore in the treatment areas. Mild swelling usually lasts less than 48 hours, but in some rare cases, swelling may persist for up to a week.

Do not touch the treatment areas, as this may lead to infection.

Regular washing or shower activities may be resumed after 24 hours unless instructed otherwise.

For swelling and soreness, apply a cold, wet cloth to the treatment area in intervals of 10-15 minutes.

Do not wear makeup or other cosmetic products in the treatment areas for 24 hours.

Apply a thin layer of vaseline after showering.

Do not pick scabs that develop in the treatment area.

subcision skin

Is subcision treatment the best for acne scar treatment?

Subcision is often recommended alongside other medical treatments to diminish acne scarring. These treatments may include:

Dermapen Microneedling. It is a completely natural treatment that has both anti-ageing and restoration effects, and is used to significantly improve atrophic scars following acne, injuries, chicken pox scars or enlarged pores.

Dermabrasion. This procedure uses a wire brush or a diamond wheel with rough edges to remove and level the uppermost layer of skin.

Laser treatment. This treatment involves using lasers to remove your uppermost layer of skin and heal scarring.

How many sessions are needed?

One or two sessions should be needed, depending on the severity of the scarring.

What is the cost?

Between £200 and £700

If you would like to discuss this treatment option further, or you want to see what other treatments are available, you can contact Dr Anastasia ‘s Therianou dermatology clinic by phone: 02038695134 or 02034684884 or by sending an email to info@drtherianou.com

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