Treatment Overview
Subcision with Cortisone Injection Support is a dual-approach acne therapy offered in Korean dermatology clinics for patients dealing with cystic acne and early scar formation.
- Subcision uses a fine needle or cannula to release tethered scar tissue and reduce tension around healing cysts, allowing skin to remodel naturally.
- Cortisone Injection (Kenalog / triamcinolone) is administered simultaneously into inflamed cysts to rapidly calm swelling, redness, and pain.
Together, these two procedures not only treat active cysts but also prevent long-term scarring, making it a powerful option for patients with severe, recurrent, or scarring-prone acne.
Purpose & Benefits
- Inflammation Control: Cortisone injections flatten cysts within 1–3 days.
- Scar Prevention: Subcision breaks fibrotic strands that lead to pitted scars.
- Dual Action: Treats both active lesions and future skin texture concerns.
- Collagen Remodeling: Stimulates dermal repair for smoother, stronger skin.
- Rapid Relief: Reduces pain and swelling quickly.
- Targeted Approach: Focused only on affected areas, minimizing downtime.
Ideal Candidates
This combined treatment in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular acne at risk of scarring.
- Individuals with early rolling scars forming from cystic lesions.
- Those with painful, inflamed cysts needing quick relief.
- Patients who want both immediate treatment and long-term scar prevention.
- Individuals who have not improved with surface-only treatments like peels.
Possible Risks & Complications
When performed by skilled Korean dermatologists, the procedure is safe, but mild side effects may occur:
- Redness & Swelling: Typically lasts 1–3 days post-treatment.
- Mild Bruising: Common with subcision, fades in 5–7 days.
- Skin Thinning or Dimpling: Rare, if cortisone is overdosed (avoided with Korean dilution protocols).
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Minimized with careful aftercare and sun protection.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Subcision: A fine needle or cannula is inserted beneath the skin to release fibrotic strands tethering cysts or early scars.
- Cortisone Micro-Injection: Diluted triamcinolone (Kenalog) injected into inflamed cysts.
- Optional Add-Ons: PRP, exosomes, or LED light applied post-treatment to speed healing.
Protocol: Typically 2–4 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, depending on severity.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness, swelling, or pressure at treatment sites.
1–3 Days: Cysts shrink significantly; bruising from subcision may appear.
1–2 Weeks: Skin heals, collagen remodeling begins, early scars soften.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply soothing creams or barrier moisturizers.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid alcohol, saunas, and vigorous exercise for 2–3 days.
- Do not pick or massage treated areas until fully healed.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Cystic lesions flatten and pain subsides.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable improvement in texture and reduced recurrence of scarring.
- After 3–4 Sessions: Long-term scar prevention, smoother skin tone, and stronger dermal support.
Results are long-lasting, especially when combined with ongoing acne-control therapies (peels, RF, PDT).
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Mapping
Dermatologist evaluates cystic acne activity, scar risk, and lesion depth.
Preparation
Cleansing and topical/local anesthesia applied for comfort.
Subcision + Cortisone Injection Session
- Step 1: Subcision performed to release tethered scar tissue around cysts.
- Step 2: Diluted cortisone (Kenalog) injected directly into inflamed cysts.
- Step 3: Cooling mask, LED therapy, or PRP applied for healing.
Duration: 30–45 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Barrier cream and sunscreen applied; downtime limited to bruising (few days).
Follow-Up
2–4 treatments recommended depending on acne severity and scar risk.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Dual Approach: Korean dermatologists combine scar prevention with rapid cyst control.
- Customized Dilution: Safe micro-dosing of cortisone minimizes risks.
- Advanced Healing Add-Ons: PRP, exosomes, and LED often included.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Protocols minimize risk of PIH and over-treatment.
- Affordable Packages: Combination procedures are cost-effective compared to Western clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Subcision + Cortisone Injection Session: USD 200 – 400
- With PRP or LED Therapy: USD 300 – 500
- With Exosome or Regenerative Boosters: USD 400 – 700
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Program (2 sessions): USD 400 – 700
- Acne Care Program (3 sessions with PRP or LED): USD 800 – 1,200
- Premium Program (3–4 sessions with Exosome/Rejuran + Scar Prevention): USD 1,500 – 2,400
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Subcision + cortisone support for acne and scar prevention.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Combination cystic acne treatment with scar focus.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Subcision with PRP and cortisone for inflammation.
- View Dermatology: Multi-step acne programs with subcision + cortisone add-ons.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium scar-prevention packages with regenerative boosters.
