What is scar subcision and punch elevation treatment?
Scar subcision and punch elevation is a minimally invasive, combination treatment approach for reducing acne scars.
Scar subcision releases the fibrous bands that tether acne scars to the underlying tissue. By carefully inserting a fine needle beneath the scar, the dermatologist breaks these bands, allowing the skin to rise and heal naturally. This also stimulates collagen production, further enhancing skin texture over time.
Punch elevation is a specialized technique for treating deep scars. A small, circular instrument removes the scarred tissue, and the remaining edges are secured back together. This raises the scar to the level of the surrounding skin, significantly reducing its visibility.
Combining these techniques into one treatment is an effective way to reduce stubborn acne scars: Scar subcision works by improving skin texture from below, while punch elevation targets specific scars by physically lifting or replacing damaged tissue.
Who is a candidate for scar subcision and punch elevation treatment?
These treatments are effective for patients in good health of any age, gender, or skin type who have post-acne scarring such as superficial macules, dermal trough scars, ice pick scars, multi-channeled fistulous tracts, and subcutaneous atrophy.
What is a session like?
Based on your case, your Forefront provider may recommend subscision, punch elevation, or both to improve the appearance of scars. Both procedures are minimally invasive and performed using local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
Subcision is a very effective technique for correcting atrophic scars that give the affected skin a sunken appearance. The dermatologist inserts a fine needle and sweeps it back and forth repeatedly to free the skin from the underlying scar tissue.
Subcision treatments can be done in conjunction with other treatments such as laser resurfacing, skin rolling, or dermal fillers.
For deeper scars, the punch excision acne scar removal method involves using a small cookie cutter like tool to cut out the individual acne scar. After the scar is removed, the tiny wound that is formed during the process is covered up using steri-strips. This process leaves behind a tiny and much lighter acne scar in place of the original one.
Sessions are often completed within 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of scars treated.
After the procedure, patients may experience mild redness, swelling, or tenderness, which typically resolves within a week.
What results can be expected from subcision and punch elevation for acne scars?
Results are typically visible within a few weeks as the skin heals and collagen production increases. Many patients notice a significant improvement in the appearance of their scars after one session. For best results, multiple sessions may be recommended.
Interested in improving the appearance of acne scars with subcision and punch elevation? Find a Forefront practice near you today.
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