Subcision for acne scars is a minimally invasive procedure that may help release the fibrous tissue pulling depressed scars downward, allowing the skin to rise toward a smoother, more even surface. If you have been researching solutions for rolling or boxcar acne scars and feel that topical products and surface-level treatments have not delivered the results you hoped for, subcision may be a meaningful next step worth exploring. At Eterna M.D. in Lake Mary, FL, our physician-led team combines clinical precision with a personalized approach to help patients feel confident in their skin again.
To learn whether subcision is right for you, contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation.
What Is Subcision for Acne Scars and How Does It Work?
Subcision is a minor surgical technique designed to address depressed acne scars, particularly rolling scars and certain boxcar scars, by targeting the structural cause beneath the skin’s surface. During the procedure, a provider inserts a fine needle or cannula just below the scar. The instrument is then maneuvered to break apart the fibrous bands of tissue that tether the scar to deeper layers of skin. Once those bands are released, the depressed area is no longer held down, and the body’s natural healing response may stimulate collagen production in the treated zone.
Types of Scars That May Respond to Subcision
Not every acne scar responds to subcision in the same way. Rolling scars, which have a soft, wave-like depression, are generally considered the most responsive. Boxcar scars with sloping edges may also benefit. Ice pick scars, which are narrow and deep, are typically addressed through other approaches. During a consultation at Eterna M.D., the provider will assess your scar type, skin tone, and overall skin health before recommending subcision or an alternative from our comprehensive range of skin procedures in Orlando and Lake Mary.
How Subcision Fits Into a Broader Scar Treatment Plan
Subcision is frequently combined with complementary treatments to optimize results. At Eterna M.D., subcision may be considered alongside microneedling, which uses controlled micro-injuries to further encourage collagen remodeling, or with nanofat and fat transfer techniques that restore volume to areas that have lost fullness over time. Because our physicians integrate regenerative medicine into cosmetic care, they are well-positioned to recommend multi-modal treatment plans that address both the structural and textural aspects of acne scarring.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Subcision Treatment
Understanding the full arc of the subcision experience helps patients arrive informed and prepared. A thorough consultation is the starting point at Eterna M.D. During this appointment, a physician reviews your medical history, evaluates your scars in detail, and discusses your goals. If subcision is recommended, pre-treatment instructions may include avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements for a specified period, as well as sun protection to minimize skin sensitivity.
During the Procedure
Subcision is typically performed in-office under local anesthesia. A topical or injected anesthetic is applied to the treatment area to support comfort throughout the session. Most patients describe mild pressure or movement rather than significant discomfort. The procedure itself may take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the number of scars being treated. Because Eterna M.D. performs awake procedures without general anesthesia, consistent with the philosophy Dr. Carlos Mercado has applied across the practice’s surgical and minimally invasive services, patients can expect a focused, comfortable experience and a quicker return to their day.
Recovery and What to Expect After Treatment
After subcision, some bruising, swelling, and tenderness in the treated area are normal and expected. These effects are temporary for most patients and generally resolve within one to two weeks. Sun protection and gentle skincare are strongly encouraged during the healing period. Most patients are able to resume light daily activities shortly after treatment, though specific downtime guidance will be personalized based on your procedure. Individual results may vary. Some patients pursue multiple subcision sessions spaced weeks apart to achieve their desired level of improvement, particularly when addressing a larger area or multiple scar types.
Combining Subcision with Regenerative and Skin Rejuvenation Treatments
One of the most meaningful advantages of choosing a physician-led practice for subcision for acne scars is access to a broader menu of complementary treatments that can be thoughtfully layered into your plan. At Eterna M.D., the integration of regenerative medicine sets the practice apart from standard aesthetic clinics. Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma therapy, exosomes, and stem cell-informed approaches may be incorporated to support the skin’s healing process and encourage more robust collagen formation following subcision.
Nanofat and Volume Restoration
For patients whose acne scarring is accompanied by volume loss, particularly in the cheeks or temples, subcision may be paired with fat transfer and nanofat procedures to restore structural support beneath the skin. This combination can address both the tethering effect of scar tissue and the hollow appearance that often accompanies deep or long-standing scarring.
Microneedling and Collagen Induction Therapy
Microneedling is a natural pairing for subcision because both treatments work to stimulate the skin’s collagen remodeling response, though through different mechanisms. When performed in the appropriate sequence, these two treatments may complement each other to address surface texture, pigmentation irregularities, and structural depression. At Eterna M.D., our aestheticians, including Zuleima, our lead aesthetician with more than 15 years of experience, collaborate closely with our physicians to design layered treatment sequences that support your skin’s long-term health.
Why Choose Eterna M.D. in Lake Mary for Subcision for Acne Scars?
Eterna M.D. has served the Central Florida community since 2006, and that nearly two decades of presence in Lake Mary reflects a practice built on consistency, trust, and genuinely individualized care. Co-founders Dr. Carlos Mercado and Dr. Mara De La Vega are board-certified physicians whose affiliations include the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Academy of Stem Cell Physicians, among others. Dr. Mercado has been recognized as one of the Best Doctors in America in 2015 and 2018, and the practice’s integration of regenerative medicine into cosmetic care reflects a commitment to advancing patient outcomes beyond conventional approaches.
For patients seeking subcision for acne scars near Lake Mary, the physician-led environment at Eterna M.D. means that your care is guided by doctors with extensive experience, not delegated to staff without clinical oversight. The practice also serves a bilingual patient community, with Spanish-language support available for patients who prefer to discuss their care in Spanish. Complimentary consultations lower the barrier to starting the conversation, and our full suite of facial procedures in Orlando and Lake Mary means your complete skin rejuvenation journey can be addressed in one trusted environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subcision for Acne Scars
Am I a good candidate for subcision for acne scars?
Subcision tends to work best for patients with rolling or certain boxcar acne scars that have a soft, depressed appearance. Candidates should have realistic expectations and be in generally good health. Patients with active acne breakouts may be advised to wait until the skin is stable before proceeding. A consultation with one of Eterna M.D.’s physicians is the best way to determine whether subcision is appropriate for your specific scar type and skin condition.
How many subcision sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies based on the depth, number, and distribution of scars being treated. Some patients see meaningful improvement after one session, while others benefit from a series of two to four treatments spaced several weeks apart. During your consultation at Eterna M.D., your provider will assess your scars and discuss a realistic treatment timeline tailored to your goals. Results build progressively as collagen remodeling continues over several months.
Can subcision be combined with other scar treatments at the same visit?
In many cases, subcision can be performed alongside complementary treatments such as microneedling or platelet-rich plasma therapy. The specific combination and timing depend on your skin’s condition and the extent of treatment needed. At Eterna M.D., our physicians evaluate each patient individually and will recommend a sequenced plan that supports safe, effective healing. Explore our full range of skin procedures in Orlando and Lake Mary to learn more about available options.
Is subcision painful?
Subcision is performed under local anesthesia, which helps support comfort throughout the procedure. Most patients report feeling pressure or mild movement rather than significant pain during treatment. Some soreness and sensitivity in the days following the session are normal. The team at Eterna M.D. will provide detailed post-care instructions to help manage any discomfort and support a smooth recovery period.
Does Eterna M.D. offer subcision near Lake Mary, FL?
Yes, Eterna M.D. serves patients in Lake Mary and throughout Central Florida, including the greater Orlando area. If you are researching subcision for acne scars and want to speak with a board-certified physician about your options, you can contact Eterna M.D. to schedule a complimentary consultation or complete a virtual consultation form online at your convenience.
Reach Out Today
If you are ready to explore subcision for acne scars in Lake Mary, FL, the physician-led team at Eterna M.D. is here to help you take the next step with confidence. Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation, or contact us online to connect with our team at your convenience.
Dr. Mara De La Vega
Dr. Mara De La Vega, Medical Director and Master Injector at Eterna MD Medical Rejuvenation Center, is a leader in aesthetic medicine known for her personalized, client-centered approach and groundbreaking innovations. She is the inventor of Radiant HA, a unique blend of Calcium Hydroxyapatite and Hyaluronic Acid that stimulates collagen production and boosts skin hydration. With expertise spanning cosmetic fillers, injectables, laser resurfacing, body contouring, mesotherapy, PRP therapy, and advanced cellulite treatments, Dr. De La Vega incorporates pioneering techniques from Europe and South America to deliver exceptional results. Recognized for her precision with under-eye fillers, facial biostimulators, and Sculptra, she also leads advancements in regenerative aesthetics through the use of stem cells for authentic rejuvenation. As Medical Director of Eterna MD, Dr. De La Vega continues to set new standards in patient care and innovation, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in cosmetic medicine.
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