Subcision for acne scars is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat atrophic scars—especially rolling scars and boxcar scars. By breaking the fibrous bands beneath the skin that tether scars downward, subcision allows the skin to lift, while simultaneously stimulating new collagen production for smoother, healthier skin texture.
This treatment has become a cornerstone in modern dermatology and aesthetic medicine for patients seeking long-lasting improvement in acne scarring.
How Subcision Works
During a subcision treatment, a fine needle or blunt-tip cannula is inserted under the skin. The practitioner carefully targets fibrous bands, pulling the scar down, and severing them to release the depression.
- Scar release: Breaking the tethered bands allows the skin to rise.
- Collagen stimulation: The controlled micro-trauma triggers the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen and elastin production.
- Gradual improvement: Over the course of weeks to months, the treated area becomes firmer, smoother, and more evenly toned and textured.
Ideal Candidates and Scar Types
Subcision is most effective for depressed acne scars that are tethered to deeper structures:
- Rolling scars (soft, wave-like indentations)
- Shallow boxcar scars (broad, U-shaped depressions)
- Selected deep ice pick scars, when combined with other treatments
It is not suitable for:
- Raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid)
- Patients with active acne, skin infections, or clotting disorders
Benefits of Subcision for Acne Scars
- Targets the root cause: Releases fibrous bands that topical products and peels cannot reach.
- Stimulates natural healing: Collagen production continues for months after treatment.
- Customisable: Can be combined with fillers, PRP, microneedling, or fractional laser resurfacing for superior results.
- Safe across skin tones: Particularly effective for medium to dark skin types, where aggressive lasers may pose higher risks of hyperpigmentation.
- Long-lasting improvement: Results are generally permanent, with gradual scar improvement after each session.
Combination Treatments
At Skin Renewal, every treatment journey is guided by our experienced medical doctors, ensuring the highest standards of safety, expertise, and care. Our doctor-led approach means that each patient receives a personalised plan, tailored not only to their skin concerns but also to their overall health and wellbeing—delivering results that are both natural and long-lasting. For optimal scar revision, subcision is often combined with other advanced treatments:
