If you’ve been dealing with deep acne scars—especially tethered scars that leave dents or shadows on your skin—subcision is probably on your radar. It’s one of the most effective treatments for rolling scars and depressed boxcar scars, and when done correctly, it can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels.
 But what if you’re also taking Accutane (isotretinoin)? Can you still get subcision? Should you wait? Is it safe? Â
 Let’s break down the facts, the risks, and what you need to know if you're thinking about subcision on Accutane—or if you're planning for future treatment while on this powerful medication. Â
This is one of the most common and important questions we hear from acne scar patients at Qazi Cosmetic Center in Orange County, and the answer isn’t always a simple yes or no.
What Is Subcision?
Subcision is a minimally invasive treatment used to treat acne scars that are tethered down by fibrotic bands under the skin. A blunt cannula or needle is inserted under the scar to break those bands, which allows the skin to lift and the area to remodel naturally with collagen over time.
It’s especially effective for:
- Rolling scars
- Boxcar scars with soft edges
- Scars that worsen under angled light (a sign of tethering)
Subcision can also be combined with fillers (like Bellafill), PRP, or energy-based devices for enhanced results.
But here's the catch: subcision causes controlled trauma, and your skin has to be healthy enough to handle that trauma and heal properly.
So… Can You Do Subcision While on Accutane?
In most cases, no—you shouldn’t do subcision while actively taking Accutane.
Accutane (also called isotretinoin) is a powerful medication that significantly reduces oil production and inflammation in the skin. It’s life-changing for many people with severe or persistent acne. But it also affects your skin’s ability to heal, which is why most medical providers—including our team at Qazi Cosmetic Center—recommend waiting before jumping into procedures like subcision.
Why the caution?
- Accutane can thin the skin and slow wound healing.
- Procedures like subcision involve controlled injury beneath the skin.
- Doing subcision on Accutane may increase the risk of scarring, infection, or pigment changes.
- The skin may respond unpredictably due to its altered healing state.
So while it might feel frustrating to wait, it’s safer in the long run to let your skin fully recover before starting scar treatments.
What’s the Waiting Period After Accutane?
Traditionally, dermatologists recommended waiting 6 to 12 months after finishing Accutane before performing any procedures that disrupt the skin barrier, including lasers, microneedling, or subcision.
However, newer studies suggest that this waiting period might not need to be quite as long, especially for treatments that don’t target the surface of the skin.
At Qazi Cosmetic Center, we take a case-by-case approach:
- If you're on a low-dose or short course of Accutane, we may consider starting certain treatments sooner—with caution.
- If you’ve finished Accutane recently, we’ll assess your skin’s healing response, moisture levels, and inflammation before creating a plan.
- We may recommend starting with less invasive options first, then easing into subcision once the skin shows it can handle trauma.
Bottom line? The wait is worth it. Treating scars too early can backfire. Timing matters just as much as the technique.
What You Can Do While You’re on Accutane
Just because you can’t do subcision right now doesn’t mean you have to do nothing. There are still things you can do while on Accutane to support your skin, prep for scar treatment, and protect your results once you're ready.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Stay consistent with your Accutane regimen. Focus on acne control first—active breakouts must be managed before scar treatment begins.
- Use gentle, hydrating skincare. Accutane dries out the skin, so prioritize barrier repair with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants, acids, or irritating products.
- Wear SPF every single day. Sun exposure can worsen scars and pigmentation—especially when your skin is sensitized from Accutane.
- Book a virtual consultation to map out your future plan. It’s helpful to discuss your skin history and goals now so you can start treatment as soon as you’re ready.
Financing Options Are Available
We understand that acne scar treatment is an investment—one that often requires multiple sessions and long-term planning.
To make it more accessible, we offer flexible financing through:
- Cherry
- CareCredit
- Alpheon
- Affirm
Explore payment plans or apply ahead of time through our financing page. Our goal is to help you heal your skin without financial stress.
Not Local? No Problem—We Offer Virtual Consultations
At Qazi Cosmetic Center, we’ve helped thousands of patients from around the world begin their acne scar journey—even before they’re ready for treatment.
Many of our patients fly in from out of state for in-person procedures, and we’ve made it easy to get started:
- Schedule a virtual consultation - no phone call needed
- We’re located just five minutes from John Wayne Airport in Orange County
- Most patients fly in and out the same day for treatment
- The airport staff is familiar with our clinic and frequently assist Qazi patients
- We’ll help plan your treatment timeline—especially if you’re currently on Accutane
Prefer to talk to someone? Call our office directly at (949)-336-7293.
Quick Takeaways: Subcision and Accutane
- Subcision is not typically recommended during active Accutane use
- Waiting 6–12 months is safest, but timing can vary based on your dose, skin condition, and healing response
- Premature treatment increases the risk of complications like scarring, slow healing, or pigment changes
- Focus on acne control first—scar revision comes second
- Book a virtual consult to plan your treatment timeline, even if you’re still on medication
- Qazi Cosmetic Center offers same-day travel options and flexible financing
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling stuck between finishing Accutane and wanting to treat your scars right away, you’re not alone. Acne scars can affect your confidence, and the urge to “fix it now” is completely understandable.
But subcision isn’t a quick fix—it’s a medical procedure that requires the right timing, the right technique, and the right skin environment to work. Rushing it while you’re still on Accutane can set you back, not move you forward.
At Qazi Cosmetic Center, we’re here to help you plan wisely—so your skin can heal fully, and your results can last. Whether you’re currently on isotretinoin or just finished a course, we’ll walk you through the best next steps.
Book your consultation today by clicking here or call (949)-336-7293.
Let’s get you clear, confident, and scar-free—on your schedule, safely and strategically.
