Subcision: Does it cause facial sagging? | Dr Davin Lim

Subcision is a surgical procedure akin to keyhole surgery. It can be performed by dermatologists & plastic surgeons using many instruments including the Taylor Liberator, cannulas, modified blades, Nokor Needle, hook devices, flat instruments & sharp stripping instruments. This procedure is best reserved for severe tethered scars involving facial areas. Subcision is often combined with lasers, RF microneedling & deep focal peels. . How to tell if you are a candidate for subcision? Subcision is best reserved for acne scars with deep attachments. In most cases a real time clinical examination is required. Diagnostic clues include- Tethering or puckering at rest Tethering upon animation (smile, grin, frown) Inability to distend skin upon gentle stretching (Grade 4/B scars) Fibrosis upon palpation The dimple sign-squeeze either side of the scar. If there’s a dimple, there’s probably an attachment to the deep layers of skin