Subsicion under Malar bag area - is this safe? (photos)

Question

Hello! I have lines on my face where my cheekbone meets my cheek. My esthetician wants to insert a cannula under the skin in this area and separate two areas (she called it "perforation", but i guess the right english term for this procedure is "subsiction"). She claims that after these manipulations the lines will disappear. I am worried because I cannot find any information about this procedure. Is it even safe?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Several issues need to be addressed here. First, I have personally been peforming subcisions since 1995 and have literally performed tens of thousands during that time. It is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed using only local anesthesia and best reserved for elevating and smoothing indented scars, such as boxcar and rolling acne scars, as well as indented surgical and traumatic scars. Since it is a medical procedure, it also should be performed by an experienced  cosmetic PHYSICIAN. Finally, the kind of tear trough development seen in the one photo provided, typically arises out of volume deficit in the upper cheek. Hence, the use of an appropriately robust HA filler to augment the cheek would not only contour a more feminine, heart-shapped appearance, but would likely secondarily improve the fold that troubles you. You would be wise to seek professional physician care and best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I suggest you get a consultation with a plastic surgery in your community to get a better understanding of treatment options.
I don’t know what country you live in or what the standards are.
I suggest you ask your provider to show you the complete collection of before, and after pictures of previously done in cases.
I have a feeling you’re going to end up bruised with a small puncture wound, and the final outcome will probably be about the same if you have the procedure you describe. 
I think you should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. 
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Subsicion under Malar bag area - is this safe? (photos)

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Subsicion under Malar bag area - is this safe? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Subcision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.