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Subcision Acne Scar Treatment

Subcision Acne Scar Treatment is a specialised medical procedure designed to release tethered, depressed acne scars, primarily those classified as rolling scars. Sometimes referred to simply as scar subcision, this technique involves using a fine, sharp instrument inserted beneath the skin's surface to physically break the fibrous bands that pull the skin downward, causing the depression. Acne scarring is a common skin concern, and at our Kent Town, Adelaide clinic, individuals may seek scar subcision for elective aesthetic reasons to improve the smoothness and texture of the skin.
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OverviewBenefitsWhat to ExpectPricingMeet the TeamFAQs
Overview

Subcision Acne Scar Treatment Adelaide

Acne scars, particularly rolling scars, are caused by fibrous bands of tissue (scar tissue) that develop between the skin’s surface and the underlying subcutaneous tissue. These bands pull the epidermis down, creating a rolling or depressed appearance on the skin surface.

Subcision Acne Scar Treatment involves:

Mechanical Disruption: A specialised instrument is inserted through a tiny entry point adjacent to the scar.

Fibrous Band Release: The instrument is gently swept beneath the depressed scar tissue to physically cut and break the anchoring fibrous strands.

Healing Stimulation: Releasing these bands allows the depressed skin to rise, and the controlled micro-injury stimulates a healing response, promoting new collagen formation beneath the scar.

The procedure of Subcision Acne Scar Treatment aims to elevate the depressed skin and improve the overall texture and contour of the scarred area.

Scar subcision is typically most effective for rolling acne scars, where broad, shallow depressions are tethered to deeper tissue. It may also be considered for some wider boxcar scars with a tethered component. However, subcision is generally not suitable for ice pick scars (narrow, deep pits), keloid scars, or hypertrophic (raised) scars, as these involve different tissue structures. Your practitioner will assess your specific scar type during the mandatory consultation to determine whether subcision is appropriate.

Subcision Acne Scar Treatment is classified as a higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure because it involves physically penetrating the skin barrier with a sharp instrument in a subdermal plane. This treatment is not medically necessary as acne scars pose no threat to physical health; the decision to undergo Subcision Acne Scar Treatment is entirely elective for cosmetic reasons. Risks associated with the treatment are significant and include: temporary bruising (which is expected and can be extensive), swelling, tenderness, and, rarely, infection, temporary nerve damage, or the formation of an unwanted lump or nodule due to bleeding. These potential complications and risks are integral to the decision-making process for your Subcision Acne Scar Treatment and will be fully detailed during your mandatory consultation.

All higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including Subcision Acne Scar Treatment, are performed exclusively by a registered health practitioner, as our practice adheres strictly to the professional standards and guidelines set by the National Boards and Ahpra. This commitment means the practitioner’s primary duty is always to the patient, ensuring all decisions regarding your treatment are based on clinical necessity, not financial gain. Furthermore, every procedure will be performed by a practitioner possessing the appropriate qualifications, education, and competence relevant to the specific treatment being offered. We are obligated to provide you with clear, accurate, and objective information about the treatment, including the potential for complications. Finally, our practitioners are committed to proactively managing any potential conflict between the desire for financial return and their ethical and professional duty to provide the best and safest possible care for every patient.

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Benefits

Benefits of Subcision Acne Scar Treatment

1
Objective Elevation of Scars:
Subcision Acne Scar Treatment is designed to achieve a measurable elevation and reduction in the depth of depressed, tethered rolling scars on the treated area.
2
Improvement of Skin Texture:
The procedure aims to promote neocollagenesis (new collagen growth) to create an objectively smoother skin surface texture over time.
3
Refinement of Skin Contour:
The targeted treatment seeks to improve the overall objective evenness and smoothness of the facial contour.
4
Guided, Structured Recovery Process:
You receive a structured post-procedure care plan and direct practitioner support to manage the recovery phase, which is essential for achieving the most favourable clinical outcome from your Subcision Acne Scar Treatment.
The Process

What to Expect

Before the Procedure
Before any Subcision Acne Scar Treatment can proceed, you must attend a mandatory, comprehensive consultation with our registered health practitioner. This initial step is essential to perform a clinical assessment of your scarring type, determine the depth and severity of the tethering, and rule out any skin infections. Following this detailed assessment, we will determine if a higher risk non-surgical procedure is the appropriate, safe Subcision Acne Scar Treatment option for you. This is where we have an honest conversation about the achievable outcomes: the treatment aims for significant improvement and reduction of tethering, not guaranteed "flawless" or complete elimination of all scarring, as results are individualised. Crucially, the practitioner will provide a clear, detailed explanation of the specific risks and potential complications associated with subdermal procedures, and advise you on the realistic potential for temporary side effects like extensive bruising and swelling. We will discuss the expected downtime and recovery timeline, ensuring this process is neither minimised nor downplayed. To respect the seriousness of this procedure, you will be offered a suitable cooling-off period before scheduling the Subcision Acne Scar Treatment, and you will receive preliminary details about the necessary aftercare. This entire thorough process ensures you have all the objective facts needed to make a fully informed and voluntary decision about proceeding.
During the Procedure
Your Subcision Acne Scar Treatment will be administered exclusively by a registered health practitioner committed to our strict clinical protocols and ethical standards. Our focus is entirely on maintaining the highest clinical and safety standards throughout the session. Immediately before we begin, your practitioner will perform a final check-in to re-confirm your informed consent and answer any last-minute questions, respecting the serious nature of the treatment. We will not use minimising words like 'easy' or 'quick' because we acknowledge this is a formal medical procedure. The specialised technique is executed meticulously, using the sharp instrument to sever the fibrous bands beneath the skin, while adhering to rigorous infection control guidelines. Your immediate comfort is paramount, and the practitioner will communicate clearly with you during the procedure, letting you know what to expect at each stage. The duration of the session is based on clinical necessity for a safe and effective result, and we never rush the process. Ultimately, our practitioners' attention is solely on your clinical care, uninfluenced by any commercial or financial pressures.
After the Procedure
Immediately upon completion, the practitioner will apply appropriate post-treatment protocols and provide specialised instructions for immediate care. You will be given comprehensive, written aftercare instructions detailing how to manage the treated area over the coming days and weeks. It is important to have realistic expectations for recovery: expect a period of significant downtime where the treated area will show temporary signs like pronounced bruising, swelling, and tenderness—this is an expected and necessary part of the healing process for Subcision Acne Scar Treatment. Bruising and swelling typically begin to subside within one to two weeks, although individual recovery timelines vary. Adhering strictly to the recovery protocols, including rigorous sun protection, is crucial to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications. We will schedule your necessary follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and assess the initial results. Understand that the final improvement in scar depth is a gradual process and will become clearer as the treated skin heals and new collagen forms. In the event you experience any unexpected complications or serious side effects (such as signs of infection), you must contact us immediately; you will be provided with a direct, accessible contact number for your treating practitioner or the clinic to ensure prompt follow-up care is available.
Pricing

Transparent Pricing Information

We are committed to providing clear and transparent pricing for our services. The final cost of any procedure is determined by your individual clinical requirements and will be provided to you following a mandatory consultation and assessment.
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Consultation
Starting From
$100
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Meet the Team

Who We Are

Advanced Cosmetic Medicine and Laser Clinic (ACM) is a private aesthetic medicine practice located in Adelaide.

Our Clinicians
Dr. Rahma Targett
Registered Medical Practitioner (General Registration)
MED000567890

Dr. Targett is the founder of ACM and is committed to providing responsible cosmetic care.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re curious about what to expect during a consultation, the techniques we use, or the recovery process, our FAQs are designed to provide you with the essential information you need.
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Subcision Acne Scar Treatment is classified as a higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure because it involves physically penetrating the skin with a sharp instrument to disrupt tissue beneath the surface. This carries risks including significant bruising, potential for infection, and risks to underlying structures. Due to these potential complications, the procedure requires assessment and administration by a registered health practitioner, as mandated by Ahpra guidelines.

No, we cannot guarantee a “flawless” or “perfect” result. Ahpra guidelines prohibit us from creating unreasonable expectations regarding outcomes. Subcision Acne Scar Treatment aims for a significant reduction in the depth and visibility of tethered scars. Your clinical results depend on the severity and type of scarring. The final, realistic outcome will be discussed thoroughly during your mandatory consultation.

Yes, you should realistically expect a period of recovery or downtime. Since this is a specialised procedure that involves deliberately causing internal trauma, the treated area will typically show signs of healing, which will include significant bruising and swelling that can last for several days. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions to manage your recovery, which is a crucial part of the process and must not be minimised as a “quick” or “easy” fix.

Yes, a comprehensive consultation is essential and mandatory. It allows our registered health practitioner to confirm your suitability, assess the scarring, and discuss all potential risks and realistic expectations. Following the consultation for this higher risk cosmetic procedure, we are obligated to offer a sufficient cooling-off period before you can consent to the actual treatment, ensuring you have adequate time to make a fully informed decision.

We prioritise your post-procedure safety. If you experience unexpected side effects or complications (such as signs of serious infection, severe persistent pain, or fever), you must contact us immediately; you will be provided with a direct, accessible contact number for your treating practitioner or the clinic. Immediate follow-up and management of complications are part of our commitment to your clinical care and professional duty of care.

Scar subcision is typically most effective for rolling acne scars, where broad, shallow depressions are caused by fibrous tethering beneath the skin surface. It may also be considered for some boxcar scars with a tethered component. However, subcision is generally not suitable for ice pick scars (narrow, deep pits), keloid scars, or hypertrophic (raised) scars, as these involve different tissue structures. During your mandatory consultation, your practitioner will assess your specific scar type and determine whether subcision is an appropriate treatment option.

The number of sessions varies depending on the severity and extent of the scarring. Many patients require two to four sessions, typically spaced four to six weeks apart, to allow adequate healing between treatments. Some individuals may see improvement after a single session, while others with more extensive tethering may need additional treatments. Your practitioner will outline a realistic treatment plan during your consultation, including the expected number of sessions based on your individual clinical assessment.

Subcision may be used alongside other scar treatment approaches as part of a broader treatment plan. Complementary treatments such as laser resurfacing, skin needling, or chemical peels may be considered to address different aspects of acne scarring. Whether a combination approach is appropriate depends on your individual scar type, skin condition, and clinical assessment. Your practitioner will discuss any recommended combination treatments during your consultation and explain the potential risks and expected outcomes of each.