What to Expect After Subcision

Small needle-entry marks, mild firmness and uneven-looking swelling can occur early in healing. The treated scars may not look improved immediately because inflammation can temporarily alter the skin surface.

Subcision releases fibrous bands beneath a depressed scar. That controlled tissue disruption can produce bruising, puffiness and soreness as healing begins. A small lump may reflect local swelling or a collection of blood, but a clinician should assess a lump that enlarges, becomes increasingly painful or feels unusually warm.

Scar texture should be judged after the early swelling settles, not during the first look in the mirror. Your planned review is the right time to compare progress and discuss whether another scar treatment is appropriate.

Keep the area clean using the method your treating clinician provided. Avoid rubbing, picking entry points, forceful facial massage and strenuous activity until your clinician says these are suitable. A wrapped cool pack placed gently over the area can help with discomfort; do not press hard or place ice directly on skin.

Use only approved skin care while entry points close. Protect healing skin from strong sunlight with shade and the sunscreen recommended for you. If medicines were prescribed, follow the label and contact the clinic before adding an anti-inflammatory medicine or active cosmetic product.

Contact the treating clinic promptly for worsening pain, rapidly increasing swelling, spreading redness, pus, fever, persistent bleeding, skin that becomes pale or dusky, or new numbness or weakness. Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, facial swelling beyond the treated area, fainting or another severe reaction.

If bruising is extensive or you take a medicine that affects bleeding, tell the clinician exactly what you take rather than stopping it on your own.

Ask when you may restart exercise, shaving, makeup, retinoids or exfoliating products; which changes are expected for the treated depth and location; and when photographs should be taken for a fair comparison. You can also ask how subcision fits with any planned laser treatment and what spacing your skin needs between procedures.