Subcision Treatment in Toronto

Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure used to improve the appearance of certain types of depressed acne scars, especially rolling and tethered scars.

These scars can develop when fibrous bands beneath the skin pull the surface downward, creating indentations, uneven texture and visible shadowing.

At Ray Aesthetics in Toronto, subcision is used to carefully release these fibrous attachments beneath the skin. By freeing the scar from the tissue pulling it downward, the skin can gradually appear smoother and more even as the area heals.

How Subcision Works

Some acne scars remain depressed because strands of fibrous tissue beneath the skin keep the scar anchored to deeper structures.

During subcision, a specialized needle or cannula is introduced beneath the scar and used to carefully release these tethering bands.

Once these attachments are released, the skin has greater freedom to lift. The controlled healing response may also encourage collagen production in the treated area, which can contribute to gradual improvement in skin texture.

Subcision works differently from treatments that only target the surface of the skin because it addresses the underlying tethering responsible for certain depressed scars.

What Types of Acne Scars Can Subcision Treat?

Subcision is most commonly considered for:

• Rolling acne scars

• Tethered acne scars

• Depressed or indented scars

• Scars that create visible shadowing

• Uneven texture caused by underlying scar tissue

It is generally not the primary treatment for every type of acne scar.

Very narrow ice-pick scars, superficial discoloration and certain boxcar scars may respond better to different treatments or a combination approach.

A consultation helps determine which type of acne scarring you have and whether subcision is appropriate.

When Will I See Results?

Improvement from subcision is generally gradual rather than immediate.

Once the tethering beneath the scar has been released, the skin begins its healing process.

Changes in texture and scar depth may become more noticeable over the following weeks and months as swelling resolves and tissue remodelling takes place.

Results vary depending on the type and severity of scarring.

How Many Subcision Treatments Will I Need?

There is no single treatment number that applies to everyone.

Some patients may benefit from one session, while deeper or more extensive acne scarring may require multiple treatments.

The number of treatments recommended can depend on:

• Scar depth

• Number of scars

• Degree of tethering

• Previous treatments

• Healing response

• Desired level of improvement

A personalized treatment plan can be discussed during consultation.

Can Subcision Be Combined With Other Acne Scar Treatments?

Yes. Acne scars often involve more than one type of skin change, which is why combination treatment can sometimes be beneficial. Depending on the patient, subcision may be combined or sequenced with treatments such as:

Microneedling

Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin to support collagen remodelling and improve overall texture.

PRP

Platelet-rich plasma may be incorporated into certain regenerative skin treatment plans.

Skin Rejuvenation Treatments

Additional treatments may be recommended for surface texture, pigmentation or other concerns that subcision alone does not directly address.

The appropriate combination depends on the type of acne scarring present.

Subcision vs. Microneedling

Although both treatments may be used for acne scarring, they work differently.

Subcision targets fibrous bands beneath depressed scars.

Microneedling primarily creates controlled microchannels in the skin to encourage collagen remodelling and improve surface texture.

For patients with tethered rolling scars, addressing the underlying attachments may be necessary before focusing only on surface texture. Some patients may therefore benefit from both treatments as part of a structured acne scar plan.

Subcision Treatment in Toronto at Ray Aesthetics

At Ray Aesthetics, acne scar treatments are personalized according to the individual rather than approached with a single standard protocol.

If you are concerned about rolling, depressed or tethered acne scars, a consultation can help determine whether subcision is suitable for your skin and whether additional treatments may be beneficial.

Book a consultation at Ray Aesthetics in Toronto to receive a personalized acne scar assessment and treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is subcision permanent?

The fibrous bands that are successfully released during subcision do not typically reconnect in exactly the same way. However, the degree of visible improvement varies between patients, and multiple treatments may be required.

How long does swelling last after subcision?

Swelling and bruising are common after treatment and generally improve gradually. Recovery time varies depending on treatment intensity and individual healing.

Can subcision completely remove acne scars?

No treatment can guarantee complete removal of acne scars. The goal of subcision is to improve the appearance and depth of appropriate depressed scars.

Can subcision help old acne scars?

Yes. Older scars may still be considered for treatment if they are depressed and tethered beneath the skin.

Is subcision good for ice-pick scars?

Subcision is generally more appropriate for rolling and tethered scars. Ice-pick scars often require a different treatment approach.

How do I know if my acne scars are tethered?

Tethered scars often appear depressed because the skin is attached to deeper tissue. A professional assessment is the best way to determine whether tethering is present.