Subcision for Cellulite: What to Know

Cellulite has a textured, dimpled appearance that can reflect fibrous bands connecting skin to deeper tissue, alongside fat distribution and skin structure. Subcision places a needle or blade under the skin to separate selected tethering bands. It is a targeted procedure, not a general treatment for every cause of uneven texture, and it does not remove all body fat.

A clinician should examine whether dimples are fixed, how they change when the muscle moves, and whether skin laxity or another condition contributes to the appearance. Local anaesthetic can reduce sharp sensation, while pressure, bruising, swelling, and soreness may still occur. The visible result is assessed after recovery, not during the early swollen phase.

Share your medical history, previous procedures, allergies, tendency to bruise or form raised scars, and all medicines or supplements. Ask which areas are suitable and what limitations apply to walking, exercise, work, and clothing. Follow instructions about cleansing and any compression or dressing; never pause prescribed treatment without advice.

Keep treated puncture sites clean, avoid picking or forceful massage, and use only products approved for healing skin. Protect the area from heat and sun while it is sensitive. If broader texture or laxity is part of the concern, your clinician may discuss options such as [Radiofrequency Skin Tightening](/treatments/laser-and-energy/radiofrequency-skin-tightening/), [RF Microneedling](/treatments/laser-and-energy/rf-microneedling/), or [Carboxytherapy](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/carboxytherapy/).

Call the clinic if pain, redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage becomes more pronounced, if a wound separates, or if a new firm area continues to enlarge. Urgent care is appropriate for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, faintness, rapidly spreading swelling, or fever with feeling very unwell.

Ask which dimples are suitable, what other contributors to the texture were found, and how the result will be evaluated. Discuss expected bruising, activity restrictions, follow-up, and whether more than one treatment approach may be considered. Ask about alternatives and what symptoms should trigger a same-day call.