What is Subcision?
Subcision is a treatment designed to improve depressed acne scars by releasing the fibrous bands that tether the skin. At The Lab Clinic, we offer both traditional subcision using fine needles and CureJet subcision, a needle-free method that uses high-pressure micro-jets to gently separate scar tissue and deliver skin-repairing boosters like Juvelook or PRP. These methods stimulate collagen regeneration and are selected based on your scar type and skin sensitivity following a personalised consultation.
How does subcision work?
Targeted Insertion
A subcision needle is carefully inserted into the dermis to reach deep, tethered scars.
Release of Fibrotic Bands
​
The needle severs collagen fibers pulling the skin downward, stimulating natural healing.
Skin Regeneration
​
As new tissue forms, the depressed scars lift, leading to smoother, more even skin.
One primary mechanism involves disrupting the fibers that tether the scar downward.
Additionally, the physical scraping beneath the dermis is believed to trigger the generation of new collagen, thereby aiding in scar elevation.
Subcision Treatment Areas
Effective for various types of scar correction.
Rolling Scars
Wave-like depressions caused by fibrous bands pulling the skin downward. Often seen on cheeks or temples with skin laxity and oiliness.
Icepick Scars
Narrow, deep scars that resemble puncture marks. These scars penetrate into the dermis or even the subcutaneous layer.
Boxed Scars
Wider, shallow scars with sharp edges, resembling box shapes. Typically caused by long-term acne or chickenpox.
Subcision stands out as the sole procedure capable of lifting scars tethered by the acne scarring process. Consequently, it enhances rolling and boxcar acne scars, with potential improvements ranging from 10% to 50%.
Precision without pain
CureJet Scar Treatment Program
CureJet Subcision for Acne Scars
​
CureJet offers a needle-free, non-contact alternative to traditional subcision. Using high-pressure micro-jet technology, it delivers regenerative skin boosters like Juvelook or PRP evenly into the dermis without puncturing the skin with needles.
This method allows for broader subcision coverage by gently creating micro-channels in the skin, minimizing discomfort while effectively targeting superficial acne scars. It's an ideal solution for treating wide or sensitive areas with reduced pain and downtime.
CureJet Skin Regeneration Process
Scarred Skin
Micro-jet Formation & Dispersion
Delivery to Dermis
Fibroblast Stimulation
Skin Regeneration
What are the potential risks associated with subcision?
As with any surgical intervention, there are inherent risks to consider, although they are typically infrequent. The primary risk involves bruising, with possible occurrences of bleeding and hematoma formation. However, utilizing tumescent anesthesia significantly mitigates these risks. Temporary numbness in treated areas is common but usually resolves within 2 to 4 months, while permanent numbness is rare.
Less common risks encompass:
-
Nerve damage resulting in muscle weakness (a rare complication)
-
Infection
-
Formation of collagen nodules under the skin, usually self-resolving but occasionally requiring intervention
-
Scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scarring at the entry site or subcision areas
-
Changes in skin coloration
-
Persistent swelling and lymphedema
-
Reports of sagging​
​​
​​​
It's important to note that a specific degree of improvement cannot be guaranteed, and in some cases, minimal improvement may occur.
Subcision Before & After
At The Lab Clinic, all scar treatments begin with a personalised one-on-one consultation with our clinician. During this session, we carefully assess the type, depth, and pattern of scarring to determine whether traditional subcision, CureJet subcision, or a combination approach is most suitable.
We will also review your skin condition, medical history, and tolerance for numbing or anaesthetic to ensure safety and optimal results.
