Can Subcision help with smokers lines?

Question

I know subcision is effective on scars (which ii do not have) but could it help with mild-med smokers lines..i don't smoke or use straws. in my early early 50's. I DEFINITELY 100% do not want to use filler for the lip lines. Thank you.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for acne scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Acne scars require a combination approach using our HIDEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic acne scars and indented acne scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be been improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional laser such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone.

Subcision works well alone and in combination with other laser and RF platforms, including fillers and air subcision. TCA Cross can be combined with subcision. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your acne scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Hi Jill. For stubborn smoker's lines, I recommend laser resurfacing or deep peels to induce collagen production. Superficial radiofrequency devices and microneedling can help as well and are less invasive. I suggest going to an experienced cosmetic dermatologist with an expertise in lasers. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Subcision  can  break tethers and stimulate collagen and elastin production. However, if there is constant movement in the area subsidized, collagen deposition is inhibited. One can combine subcision with botox to inhibit motion, however results are not always predictable. Good luck.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

No, subcision is not effective in the treatment of lines. The reason is that the pathology of smokers lines is not due to collagen tethering. In many cases it is due to broken collagen, or elastosis. In some cases it is due to dynamic movement, and in others its due to a combination. Laser, peels (medium depth at least) and Botox can help.

Can Subcision help with smokers lines?

Answers (4)

Answer: Smokers lines and how to treat.

Answer: Smokers lines and how to treat.

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Can Subcision help with smokers lines?

Answers (4)

Answer: Smokers lines and how to treat.

Answer: Smokers lines and how to treat.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Subcision

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