In the 2026 split-face trial, subcision with suction scored higher than subcision alone on both physician and patient improvement scales. For rolling scars, the trade-off is extra visits for more satisfaction, with cost and downtime set by the clinic.
Subcision releases rolling scars by cutting fibrous bands that pull skin downward. According to Revelus Dermatology, cutting the tether lets skin lift and prompts new collagen. Rolling scars are wide, shallow dips that look wavy and tethered.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- What did the suction trial test?
- Why did patients favor suction more than grades did?
- How many visits should you plan for?
- What will cost and downtime look like?
What did the suction trial test?
The 2026 trial was a randomized split-face study of subcision alone against subcision with suction for atrophic acne scars. According to the Northwestern-affiliated protocol described on Research Square, both sides had one subcision treatment and one side had 10 suction sessions, with blinded ratings at 1 and 4 months Research Square preprint.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, physician-rated and patient-rated Acne Scar Improvement Grading Scale scores were significantly higher on the suction-treated side, p=.002 and p=.026 PubMed trial abstract. Both treatments improved scars.
Why did patients favor suction more than grades did?
Both treatments helped, but subjective ratings favored suction-assisted subcision. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine abstract, that pattern suggests benefits not fully captured by objective scar-counting methods.
According to the rater-blinded trial summary posted on ResearchGate, blinded raters found no persistent difference at 4 months, while patients reported greater satisfaction with and preference for the suction side at 1 and 4 months ResearchGate trial summary. For rolling scars, daily appearance in changing light can matter more than lesion count. A small lift or softer shadow may feel worthwhile even when a grade changes little. Ask your doctor what measure they will use to judge success for you.
How many visits should you plan for?
The trial protocol is not a full course for most patients. According to Revelus Dermatology and Qazi Cosmetic Center, typical practice is usually 3 to 4 subcision sessions.
Suction in the trial added 10 sessions on one side. Use your consult to map the full series: Bring photos in the same light to make change easier to compare.
- How many subcision sessions do my rolling scars likely need
- Whether suction would mean separate visits and how many
- How improvement will be checked between sessions
What will cost and downtime look like?
According to RealSelf, reported U.S. subcision cost averages $2,075 and ranges $500 to $6,500 across 111 patient reviews RealSelf cost data. The 2026 trial abstract reports efficacy ratings, not cost, so budgeting stays a separate clinic question.
According to Revelus Dermatology and Qazi Cosmetic Center, expect about 1 to 2 weeks of bruising and swelling. One clinic note says swelling subsides in 2 to 3 days and bruising fades in 7 to 10 days. Plan time off for bruising, avoid big events right after treatment, and get the full-series price and bruise plan in writing before you book.
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