Can subcision cause more scarring?

Question

I have a 1cm scar on my chin which was tethered and 2 weeks ago i had subcision. It hasnt improved and i now have a hard lump around the scar. Is this additional scar tissue. I am going to see the Plastic Surgeon in 4 days to talk about my concerns

Elysa Fisher, MD · Answer

It is likely that the lump you feel represents residual blood and fluid from the subcision and will resolve with time.  It is a good idea to see your doctor to confirm this and to see if the result is as they wanted.

Carmen C. Munteanu, MD, FRACS · Answer

Hello and I am sorry to hear that you are concerned.
What you had it is a treatment option. It will take a while for things to stabilise again, it is not unusual to have more lumpiness at the beginning.
Talking to your plastic surgeon would help, as they know best what they have done and whats the expectations from your tissues, having worked with you in the past.
Good luck and take care!

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Yes it can, especially if you developed a haematoma, or if the procedure was performed incorrectly. See your dermatologist or plastics who performed this procedure (in Australia, scar revision on the face carries an item number only if performed by Specialists)Subcsion was first reported in 1995. Since then this technique has taken many pathways. Most dermatologist and plastics still perform the old method- using sideways motion to break scars down. In the original papers this took 6-10 sessions using a needle. This still can be effective, but its OUTDATED. Since then other methods have evolved including-

The use of other size needles
The use of NOKOR or cutting needles
The use of cannula techniques

Of all these techniques, cannula stands out. The most recent paper this year shows that it has the best rate of scar breakdown with much less side effects than with NOKOR. Namely less bruising and ‘lumps’ from bleeding.

The results of subcision is extremely variable and will depend on the technique and experience of your Plastics or Dermatologist. Ensure they can perform all techniques competently. This is especially important with dermal fillers (or fat transfer). If one subcises a depressed scar and find it has NOT got significant tethering, a filler is needed. In this situation filler or fat is needed to elevate the scar. Subcision is my preferred method for scar revision, as I can feel how many scars I am breaking with my 3 level cannula technique. This is now considered the Gold Standard in subcsion as reviewed by peer papers. All other modalities including lasers, energy devices and peels are considered ‘instruments’ in the way I practice acne scar revision. Remember treat the scar type with a method, and you will achieve the desired outcomes. Subcsion releases and remodels acne scarring from underneath. Needless to say this just a method, the results you will achieve is 90% dependent on the skill sets of your Plastic surgeon or Dermatologist.

All the best, Dr Davin Lim

Acne Scar Specialist. Brisbane. Australia.

Can subcision cause more scarring?

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Can subcision cause more scarring?

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Everything you need to know about Subcision

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