Subcision Acne Scar Treatment

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.
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.
Benefits of Subcision Acne Scar Treatment
What to Expect



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Who We Are
Our Clinicians
Dr. Rahma Targett
Registered Medical Practitioner (General Registration)
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Dr. Targett is the founder of ACM and is committed to providing responsible cosmetic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 minimized 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 prioritize 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.