Subcision for Acne Scars in Seoul, Korea
Subcision is a minimally invasive procedure that releases the fibrous bands tethering deep acne scars, letting the skin lift and collagen rebuild for a smoother surface — ideal for rolling scars at NEST Clinic, Gangnam.
- Session 15–30 min
- Sessions 1–5 typical
- Downtime 3–7 days
- From ₩150,000
🌸 Quick answer
How does subcision fix acne scars? A fine needle is inserted under a depressed scar to break the fibrous bands pulling the skin downward. Once these tethers are released, the scar lifts and new collagen fills the space over the following weeks, smoothing the surface. It works best for rolling and tethered boxcar scars rather than ice-pick scars, and most people need 1–5 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart.
What is subcision?
Subcision is a technique where a special needle is guided just under a depressed acne scar to cut the fibrotic bands anchoring it to deeper tissue. With those tethers released, the skin is free to lift, and collagen rebuilds the area over the following weeks for a smoother, more even surface. Because it works below the surface rather than resurfacing the top, it carries less pigmentation risk than strong lasers or peels.
It is often the first step for deep tethered scars and pairs well with TCA CROSS for ice-pick scars, fillers to prevent re-tethering, or laser and RF microneedling for texture. See our acne scar treatment page for combined plans.
Best for
- Rolling scars
- Tethered boxcar scars
- Deep atrophic scars
- Depressed scars with visible shadows
Why people choose it
- Releases deep scar tension immediately
- Improves contour and shadowing
- Long-lasting as collagen forms
- Lower pigmentation risk than strong lasers
- Combines well with fillers and lasers
Before & after: what changes
There is a subtle lift straight away, then steady smoothing as collagen fills the released area over weeks.
Who is subcision for?
A good fit if you have
- Rolling or tethered boxcar scars
- Deep atrophic scars with shadowing
- Scars that have not responded to laser alone
- Various skin types, including melanin-rich skin
Less suitable if you have
- Mainly ice-pick scars (try TCA CROSS)
- Active infection in the area
- A bleeding disorder without doctor review
- Expectations of a single-session cure
How subcision works, step by step
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Cleanse and numb
The area is cleaned and prepared with numbing cream or local anaesthetic for comfort.
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Needle insertion
A special needle is gently guided just beneath the scar.
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Release the tethers
The fibrotic bands are broken, freeing the scar from the tissue pulling it down.
-
Collagen remodelling
The treated area fills and smooths over the following weeks; fillers or boosters may be added to support healing.
Recovery and results timeline
Expect mild swelling or bruising for 3–7 days and tenderness for up to a week; small lumps or firmness may appear temporarily. Makeup is usually fine after 24 hours unless advised otherwise.
- Day 0 Subtle immediate lift
- 3–7 days Swelling and bruising settle
- 3–6 weeks Noticeable improvement
- 1–3 months Full collagen remodelling
Subcision cost in Seoul
Pricing depends on the number of scars, technique and any combination treatments. International patients pay the same local price, confirmed at consultation.
| Per session | ₩150,000 – ₩350,000 |
|---|---|
| Add-on filler support | Additional cost |
| Laser or RF microneedling combo | Additional fee |
| Sessions | 1–3 mild, 3–5 deep or widespread |
| Spacing | Every 4–8 weeks |
| Downtime | Mild bruising, 3–7 days |
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Kyungyeon Lee · Chief Medical Doctor, NEST Clinic
Seoul National University (B.Sc.) and Seoul National University College of Medicine (M.Sc.); residency training at Seoul National University Hospital. Former director of VS Line Clinic, Apgujeong.
Subcision FAQ
How much does subcision cost in Seoul?
Subcision typically costs ₩150,000–₩350,000 per session, with extra for filler support or a laser/RF microneedling combination. Packages offer better value, and international patients pay the same local price.
How many subcision sessions will I need?
Most people need 1–3 sessions for mild to moderate scars and 3–5 for deep or widespread scarring, spaced 4–8 weeks apart. Collagen keeps building for 1–3 months after each session.
Does subcision hurt?
The area is numbed with cream or local anaesthetic first, so most people feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Mild tenderness and bruising for a few days afterwards is normal.
Is subcision better than laser for acne scars?
They do different jobs. Subcision mechanically releases deep tethered scars, while laser resurfaces the surface. Many Seoul clinics combine both — subcision first, laser later — for the best result.
Is subcision safe for darker skin?
Yes. Because it works below the skin surface, it carries less risk of hyperpigmentation than strong lasers or peels. Gentle aftercare and strict SPF 50+ help minimise any PIH risk.
What is the downtime?
Mild swelling or bruising for 3–7 days and tenderness for up to a week, sometimes with small temporary lumps. Most people can apply makeup after 24 hours and return to normal activities quickly.
Often considered with subcision
Have rolling scars that lasers haven't fixed?
Send a well-lit photo on WhatsApp — our doctors will tell you whether subcision, alone or combined, is the right next step for your scars.