Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples

  • A minimally invasive in-clinic procedure
  • Carried out under local anaesthetic using an aseptic/sterile technique
  • Used for depressed/atrophic scars and cellulite dimples

Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure that releases fibrous bands beneath the skin that contribute to depressions, indentations or uneven skin texture. By freeing these underlying attachments, the treatment aims to improve skin contour and support tissue remodelling. Suitability depends on the cause and characteristics of the affected area and is assessed during a personalised consultation.

At Medaesthetics, Dr Jadoon has been performing subcision treatments since 2009. 

Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples at a Glance

Treatment Discomfort:

Treatment area is fully numbed using extra-strength topica anaesthetic cream and local anaesthetic injections to minimise any discomfort

Longevity:

Long-lasting

Location:

Available at all MedAesthetics clinics.

Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples Cost in Perth

From $500 for acne and other scars
From $1500 -$3500 for cellulite dimples

Costs are confirmed at your consultation. Your final cost depends on the area treated and your individual plan.

Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples Before & After Images

Images shown are of actual MedAesthetics patients and are provided for reference only. Individual results and outcomes vary.

What Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples Involves

Treatment Areas

  • Depressed (atrophic) scars, including acne scarring
  • Cellulite dimples (commonly on the outer thighs and buttocks)
  • Other tethered or “bound-down” scars

Common Names

  • Subcision
  • Scar subcision
  • Scar reduction
  • Scar lifting
  • Cellulite subcision / dimple release
  • Subcutaneous scar release

How Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples Works

For acne and other depressed scars, subcision helps release tethered areas and improve skin surface irregularities. It is sometimes combined with treatments such as fractional CO₂ laser or other scar-management procedures, depending on the scar type.

For cellulite dimples, subcision targets the fibrous bands that create visible indentations in the skin. Releasing these bands may reduce the depth of selected dimples and improve surface contour

Subcision Sessions, Recovery & Aftercare

Typically a course of around 3–5 sessions for acne scars, or 1–2 sessions for cellulite dimples, spaced roughly 6–8 weeks apart.

The exact plan is tailored to the individual at consultation.

Each session usually takes about 30–45 minutes including numbing time.

Some discomfort can be felt during and after the procedure; a strong topical numbing cream and a local anaesthetic injection are used, and sensation and pain thresholds vary between patients.

Expect around 5-10 days of localised swelling & redness.

Subcision aims to improve the appearance of depressed scars and cellulite dimples by releasing the fibrous bands that tether the skin. This may allow the skin to lift and create a smoother surface contour.

Some improvement may be visible once initial swelling settles, while further changes can develop over the following weeks to months as collagen remodelling occurs. The degree of improvement depends on the depth and extent of the tethering, the area treated and individual healing.

Some patients may benefit from more than one session or a combination of treatments, such as fractional CO₂ laser and fat grafting for selected depressed scars. Cellulite dimples may also persist or recur, and complete correction cannot be guaranteed.

Results following subcision can be long-lasting when the fibrous bands responsible for the depressions have been adequately released. 

Ageing, changes in body weight and natural skin changes can influence the appearance of the treated area. Additional treatments may be considered if residual depressions remain or further improvement is desired.

Most patients can resume light daily activities within a day or two after subcision, depending on the treatment area and individual recovery. Strenuous exercise, swimming, saunas and activities that increase heat or sweating should be avoided. For cellulite treatment, avoid excessive pressure or friction on the treated area while it is healing.

Appropriate aftercare helps support healing and reduce the risk of complications following subcision.

  • Keep the area clean – Follow the  instructions  for gentle cleansing and wound care.
  • Manage swelling and bruising – Apply cool compresses gently if recommended. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin.
  • Avoid strenuous activity – Refrain from vigorous exercise, swimming, saunas and excessive heat during the healing stage.
  • Minimise pressure and friction – Avoid massaging, rubbing or placing unnecessary pressure on the treated area while it heals.
  • Avoid irritating skincare – Do not apply exfoliating products or other potentially irritating preparations to the treated area until the skin has recovered.
  • Attend follow-up appointments – Review appointments allow healing and treatment response to be assessed.

What to Know Before Booking Subcision

  1. Consultation and Assessment – We assess the scar or cellulite dimples, skin condition and treatment area to determine whether subcision is suitable. Expected outcomes, alternatives and potential risks are discussed.
  2. Clinical Photography and Informed Consent – Clinical photographs may be taken before and after treatment, with your informed consent, to document the area and monitor progress.
  3. Preparation and Local Anaesthesia – The treatment area is cleansed and prepared. Local anaesthetic is administered to improve comfort during the procedure.
  4. Subcision Procedure – A specialised needle or blunt cannula is inserted beneath the skin to release the fibrous bands responsible for tethering and creating depressions. The technique is tailored to the location and extent of the affected tissue.
  5. Post-Treatment Assessment – The treated area is checked, and appropriate wound care is provided. Temporary bruising, swelling and tenderness are expected possibilities.
  6. Aftercare and Follow-Up – We provide personalised aftercare instructions and guidance on resuming normal activities. A follow-up appointment may be arranged to assess healing and determine whether further treatment is appropriate.

Potential risks and side effects include bruising, temporary swelling, prolonged redness, infection, hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the treated skin, and treatment resistance (some scars respond less than others).

Choosing an appropriately qualified and experienced practitioner is important when considering subcision.

  • Qualifications and Experience – Choose a suitably qualified health practitioner with relevant experience in subcision and the treatment of skin irregularities.
  • Individual Assessment – Your skin, underlying tissue, medical history and treatment goals should be assessed before treatment.
  • Understanding of Skin Anatomy – Subcision requires knowledge of the structures beneath the skin and careful treatment planning.
  • Clear Information – Your practitioner should explain the potential benefits, risks, limitations and alternative treatment options.
  • Aftercare and Follow-up – Ensure appropriate aftercare instructions and access to clinical support are provided.

At Medaesthetics, we prioritise careful clinical assessment and personalised treatment planning to help determine the most appropriate approach for your individual needs.

At Medaesthetics, subcision is considered as part of an individualised approach to improving skin contour and addressing underlying tissue irregularities.

  • Experienced Medical Team – clinical experience in cosmetic medicine and skin treatments.
  • Personalised Assessment – treatment planning based on your skin characteristics, concerns and goals.
  • Anatomy-Led Approach – careful consideration of underlying tissue structures and treatment suitability.
  • Combination Treatment Options – assessment of complementary procedures where clinically appropriate.
  • Informed Decision-Making – clear discussion of potential benefits, risks, limitations and alternatives.
  • Ongoing Clinical Support – personalised aftercare advice and follow-up where appropriate.

Our Perth Subcision Team

The clinical team at MedAesthetics is at the forefront of addressing the entire spectrum of cosmetic facial rejuvenation, anti-ageing, hair restoration, laser and cosmetic surgery.

Subcision for Scars & Cellulite Dimples FAQs

Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure rather than major surgery. It is performed using a specialised needle or blunt cannula inserted beneath the skin to release fibrous bands responsible for depressed scars or cellulite dimples. It is generally performed under local anaesthesia and does not require large surgical incisions. 

This depends on the number, depth and type of scars or dimples. As a guide, acne scars often need a course of around 3–5 sessions and cellulite dimples around 1–2, spaced several weeks apart. Your individual plan is confirmed at consultation.

The area is numbed with topical and local anaesthetic beforehand to minimise any treatment discomfort.

5-14 days in most cases.
Downtime varies depending on the treatment area and extent of subcision. Most patients can resume light daily activities within one to two days, although bruising, swelling, tenderness and redness may persist for several days or occasionally longer. More extensive treatment may require additional recovery time.

Subcision can provide long-lasting improvement when the fibrous bands responsible for depressed scars or cellulite dimples are adequately released. However, results vary depending on the type and severity of the concern, the treatment area and individual healing.

For depressed scars, improvement may be maintained over time as the tissue heals and remodels. Cellulite dimples may also improve for an extended period, although new dimples or changes in skin contour can develop. Ageing, weight changes and natural skin changes may influence the appearance over time. Additional treatment may be considered if further improvement is desired.

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