08 · Body
Subcision: treatment for cellulite, scars and deep wrinkles
Subcision is a procedure in which the doctor uses a special needle or cannula, inserted under the skin, to cut the fibers that pull the surface down and form depressions. It is used for cellulite with dimples, depressed acne scars and some deep facial wrinkles, and can be combined with biostimulators. At Yamagata Dermatologia, in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, it is performed by dermatologists after a medical evaluation.
- Duration
- About 1 hour
- Anesthesia
- Local
- Recovery
- Bruising and swelling for a few weeks
- Result
- Progressive improvement of the depressions
How it works
Under the skin, there are fibrous bands that connect the skin to the deeper layers. When these bands become rigid or shortened, they pull the surface down and form depressions, such as cellulite dimples and some acne scars.
In subcision, the doctor inserts a special needle or cannula under the skin through a small opening and cuts these bands with fan-shaped movements. Once released, the skin rises again, and the small amount of bleeding in the space created stimulates collagen production, which helps maintain the result.
Indications
- CelluliteCellulite dimples on the buttocks and thighs.
- Acne scarsDepressed scars that improve when the skin is stretched.
- Wrinkles and expression linesDeep facial wrinkles and folds, in selected cases.
Treated areas
BodyButtocks · Thighs
FaceAcne scars · Deep wrinkles and folds
What a session is like
The doctor marks the depressions with the patient standing or seated, so they are visible. After cleaning and local anesthesia, the needle or cannula is inserted and the bands are released. At the end, the area receives compression and dressings. A session lasts about 1 hour.
Recovery
Bruising, swelling and tenderness are expected and last two to three weeks, especially on the body.
Sessions and results
The number of sessions and the interval between them depend on the dermatologist's individual evaluation and on each patient's clinical concern. The improvement of the depressions is noticed once the swelling goes down and develops over the months.
Contraindications
Subcision is not recommended during pregnancy, over wounds or active infections, for people with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulants without evaluation, or for those prone to keloids.
At the evaluation, the dermatologist reviews your health history, current medications and previous procedures to confirm the indication.
All procedures are recommended and performed after an individual medical evaluation. Results vary from person to person.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Does subcision get rid of cellulite?
Subcision treats the dimples of cellulite, caused by fibers that pull the skin down, and usually improves this aspect considerably. It does not act on laxity or diffuse ripples, which may require combined treatments, such as body biostimulators.
Will there be a lot of bruising?
Yes, bruising and swelling are expected, especially on the body, and last two to three weeks. For this reason, the procedure is usually planned for a time when the area does not need to be exposed.
Do I need to wear a compression garment afterwards?
On the body, wearing compression garments for a few days or weeks is usually recommended, as advised by the doctor, to help recovery.
Does subcision treat acne scars?
Yes, especially depressed scars that improve when the skin is stretched. It is often combined with laser, microneedling or fillers, depending on the evaluation.
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