Subcision releases the bands under depressed acne scars so the skin can lift and rebuild collagen. A minimally invasive, outpatient treatment at Glow Theory in Carlsbad.
Medical dermatology
Acne scarring can leave behind frustrating depressed marks that disrupt your skin’s texture, impacting your confidence. At Glow Theory Aesthetic & Dermatology Studio, we offer subcision—a cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to lift acne scars. Using a fine needle, we release the fibrous bands beneath the skin that tether scars downward, stimulating collagen production to smooth and even out your complexion.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Sykes, MD, Medical Director · Updated October 12, 2026
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Acne Subcision
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Financing available on treatments of $2,000 or more
Treatment options
Subcision is a safe, outpatient procedure that lifts depressed scars with precision:
Recovery is quick, with less downtime than other cosmetic procedures, though bruising may occur (manageable with icing and makeup).
Acne Subcision Carlsbad
Your provider
Founder & CEO
Insiyah has spent more than 15 years in medical dermatology and aesthetics. She completed a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, affiliated with the Harvard Dermatology Residency, and founded Glow Theory to bring that clinical standard to aesthetic care in Carlsbad.
Medical director
Dr. Sykes is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of practice. He is the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at UC Davis and a Past President of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and has trained many practitioners in facial anatomy and Botox injection technique.
Answered by Insiyah Darugar, MSN, FNP, founder and CEO
Acne scarring can leave behind frustrating depressed marks that disrupt your skin’s texture, impacting your confidence. At Glow Theory Aesthetic & Dermatology Studio, we offer subcision—a cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to lift acne scars. Using a fine needle, we release the fibrous bands beneath the skin that tether scars downward, stimulating collagen production to smooth and even out your complexion.
Yes, for the right scars. Subcision works best on depressed acne scars, particularly rolling and boxcar scars. It breaks the fibrotic strands that tether scars to the deeper layers and kickstarts collagen production. It is not suited to raised (hypertrophic) or keloid scars, and it improves scars rather than removing them completely.
Most patients need one to two sessions, with maintenance for long-term results. Your plan depends on how many scars you have and how deep they are.
The area is numbed first, so most people feel only slight pulling or pressure. It is an outpatient procedure and you go home the same day. Bruising and some swelling are common and are managed with ice and makeup; recovery is quicker than with many other scar procedures.
For a week before treatment, avoid anti-inflammatory medicines, blood thinners and supplements such as fish oil, multivitamins or herbal supplements, which can increase bruising. Check with us before stopping any prescribed medicine; your consultation covers all precautions.
Yes. Subcision is often combined with chemical peels or HALO™ laser to improve skin texture and tone as well.
