Before the Procedure
Medications
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, or herbal supplements for at least 7 days before the procedure, unless prescribed by your physician.
- Inform Dr. Shafa of all current medications, allergies, and medical conditions.
- If you take prescribed anticoagulants or have any bleeding disorders, please discuss this with Dr. Shafa prior to treatment.
Alcohol & Smoking
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 48 hours before treatment, as both can increase bruising and delay healing.
Skin Preparation
- Keep the treatment area clean and free of makeup, lotions, or topical creams on the day of the procedure.
- Avoid any chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling in the same area for 2 weeks before subcision.
- If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex), inform Dr. Shafa—antiviral prophylaxis may be prescribed to prevent flare-ups.
Anesthesia & Transportation
- The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and you will be able to drive yourself home afterward.
- If you are prone to anxiety or will receive oral sedation, please arrange for transportation.
After Care Instructions – Scar Subcision
Swelling & Bruising
- Mild swelling or bruising is expected for several days and may last up to 1–2 weeks, depending on the depth and extent of treatment.
- Apply cold compresses every 2–3 hours during the first 24 hours to minimize swelling and bruising.
- Sleep with your head elevated the first night to help reduce swelling.
Pain & Comfort
- Pain is not typically expected after subcision.
- If mild discomfort occurs, continue with cold compresses and take Tylenol (acetaminophen) up to 3000 mg per 24 hours as needed.
- Avoid NSAIDs (such as Advil, Motrin, or Aspirin) for 48 hours, unless otherwise directed, as they may increase bruising and reduce the collagen-stimulating benefit of the treatment.
Skin Care
- Keep the treated area clean and avoid touching, pressing, or massaging for several days.
- You may gently wash the area with a mild cleanser starting the next day.
- There are no restrictions on washing frequency, but avoid using hot water until the skin is fully healed.
- Apply topical antibiotic ointment if instructed by Dr. Shafa.
- Once healed, apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily to protect the treated skin and help prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Activity
- Avoid vigorous exercise, bending, or heavy lifting for 3–5 days following the procedure.
- Refrain from any activity that increases facial pressure or strain during the first 48 hours.
General Care
- You may apply makeup starting the day after the procedure if there is no open wound or drainage.
- Report immediately any excessive pain, redness, drainage, or signs of infection (such as warmth, pus, or fever).
When to Contact the Office
If you experience increasing pain, swelling, redness, or drainage, please contact us promptly:
- During office hours: (949) 551-1113
- After hours, weekends, or holidays: Text Dr. Shafa at (949) 426-7744
Follow-Up & Maintenance Plan
Goal: Gradual collagen remodeling, smoother skin contour, and restoration of a natural skin surface.
Follow-Up Schedule
- Day 1 – In-person or virtual check-in
- Day 3, Day 7, Day 14, Day 30, Day 60 – Progress evaluations
- Day 90 – Final assessment and feedback appointment
Your feedback and satisfaction are very important to us. Since collagen remodeling continues over several months, consistent follow-up helps ensure the best possible results.
Further Treatments
- If scar tethering persists, a repeat subcision may be recommended.
- After healing, complementary treatments—such as microneedling, PRP, or fractional laser resurfacing—may enhance the final result.
Maintenance
- Annual touch-up or resurfacing sessions are recommended to maintain long-term improvement and refine skin texture.
