Acne Scar Subcision in Korea: Complete Guide 2025
Subcision is a game-changing treatment for depressed acne scars, particularly rolling scars. This minimally invasive technique releases tethered scars from below, allowing skin to rise naturally.
What is Subcision?
Subcision is a minor surgical procedure that:
- Inserts a needle under the scar
- Breaks fibrous bands pulling skin down
- Releases the scar from underlying tissue
- Creates space for collagen formation
- Allows skin to lift naturally
It's particularly effective for depressed, tethered scars.
Types of Acne Scars
| Scar Type | Description | Subcision Effective? |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling | Wave-like, tethered | Excellent |
| Boxcar | Defined edges, shallow | Good |
| Ice Pick | Deep, narrow | Limited |
| Atrophic | General depression | Good |
Subcision works best for rolling scars with underlying fibrous bands.
Subcision Prices in Korea (2025)
| Treatment | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Subcision (per area) | ₩100,000-200,000 | $75-155 |
| Subcision (full face) | ₩200,000-400,000 | $155-310 |
| Subcision + Filler | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
| Subcision + Laser | ₩250,000-450,000 | $190-345 |
| Package (3 sessions) | ₩400,000-700,000 | $310-540 |
Prices as of January 2025.
Korea vs. International
| Location | Per Session |
|---|---|
| Seoul | $75-310 |
| Los Angeles | $500-1,500 |
| Savings | 75-85% |
How Subcision Works
The Procedure
- Marking: Scars identified and marked
- Numbing: Local anesthesia injected
- Insertion: Needle inserted parallel to skin
- Sweeping: Fibrous bands broken
- Release: Scar freed from tethering
Needle Types
Nokor Needle
- Traditional technique
- Sharp, effective
- More precise
Cannula
- Blunt tip
- Less bruising
- Larger areas
What You Feel
- Numbing injection (brief sting)
- Pressure during procedure
- Popping/snapping sensation
- Minimal pain with anesthesia
Expected Results
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Swelling, bruising |
| Week 1 | Bruising fades |
| Week 2-4 | Initial improvement |
| Month 1-3 | Collagen filling |
| Month 3-6 | Optimal results |
Improvement Rate
- Single session: 30-50% improvement
- Multiple sessions: 50-70% improvement
- Combined treatments: 60-80% improvement
Combining Subcision with Other Treatments
Subcision + Filler
- Filler injected into released space
- Prevents re-tethering
- Immediate volume
- Enhanced results
Subcision + Laser
- Fractional laser after healing
- Surface resurfacing
- Collagen stimulation
- Comprehensive approach
Subcision + PRP/PRF
- Growth factors injected
- Enhanced healing
- Better collagen formation
Subcision + TCA Cross
- For ice pick scars
- Combined approach
- Different scar types addressed
Treatment Protocol
Sessions Needed
| Scar Severity | Sessions | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | 1-2 | 4-6 weeks |
| Moderate | 2-3 | 4-6 weeks |
| Severe | 3-5 | 4-6 weeks |
Combination Protocol
- Session 1: Subcision
- Week 4: Subcision + Filler
- Week 8: Fractional Laser
- Week 12: Maintenance/assessment
Recovery
Day 1-3
- Significant bruising common
- Swelling
- Tender to touch
- Ice packs helpful
Week 1
- Bruising yellows, fades
- Swelling resolves
- Normal activities resume
Week 2-4
- Most bruising gone
- Results becoming visible
- Skin settling
Aftercare Tips
- Ice first 24 hours
- Avoid blood thinners
- Gentle skincare
- Sun protection
- No picking or pressure
Side Effects and Risks
Expected
- Bruising (100% of cases)
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Temporary numbness
Possible
- Prolonged bruising
- Nodules (usually resolve)
- Asymmetry
- Incomplete release
Rare
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Permanent numbness
- Scarring
Who is Subcision For?
Ideal Candidates
✅ Rolling acne scars ✅ Tethered depressed scars ✅ Failed other treatments ✅ Realistic expectations ✅ Willing to have bruising
Not Ideal For
❌ Ice pick scars only ❌ Active acne ❌ Bleeding disorders ❌ Keloid tendency ❌ Can't have downtime
FAQ
Q: How painful is subcision? A: Minimal with local anesthesia. You feel pressure and popping but not pain.
Q: How long is the bruising? A: Typically 7-14 days. Can be covered with makeup after 3-5 days.
Q: How many sessions do I need? A: Most people need 2-4 sessions for optimal results.
Q: Can subcision be done with fillers same day? A: Yes, this is a common and effective combination.
Q: Will scars come back? A: Results are generally permanent, though some re-tethering can occur.
Q: Is subcision safe? A: Yes, when performed by experienced dermatologists.
Finding Quality Treatment
What to Look For
✅ Experienced dermatologist ✅ Proper scar assessment ✅ Combination approach offered ✅ Realistic expectations set ✅ Follow-up included
Questions to Ask
- How many subcisions do you perform?
- What technique do you use?
- Do you recommend combining treatments?
- What results can I expect?
Conclusion
Subcision is a powerful technique for releasing tethered acne scars, offering results that surface treatments alone cannot achieve. Korean dermatologists have extensive experience with this procedure and offer it at a fraction of Western prices.
Struggling with depressed acne scars? Consult with a Seoul dermatologist about subcision.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about subcision. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for personalized treatment.
Last Updated: January 2025