I am often asked an immense number of questions about my experience with the subcision procedure. This post will take you through my personal experience. From my skin background to the results of the procedure. My journey is not only a testament to the effectiveness of subcision but also highlights the importance of choosing the right specialist.
Background
After relocated to Los Angeles in 2021, I made a conscious decision to seriously prioritize the health and appearance of my skin. In 2022, through a meticulous elimination diet, I discovered that soy/soybean products were the primary triggers for my severe acne. Once I had successfully cleared my skin of active acne, I was confronted with a new challenge……scarring. These scars were a combination of boxcar and ice pick scars, which greatly affected my self-esteem. (I want to emphasize that I've had severe acne on and off since I were a kid. When my acne was not severe, I would try different treatments to combat the scarring, starting in 2018).
I explored a myriad of treatments to combat these acne scars. I underwent bi-weekly facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and the Fire and Ice laser procedure about 15 times with LaserAway. Additionally, I tried broadband light (BBL) therapy, which did help noticeably improve the texture of my skin. While these treatments collectively brought about some improvement, they fell short of delivering the dramatic results I desired. I was acutely aware that achieving completely scar-free skin was unrealistic and that the process would require considerable time. My goal was a modest yet meaningful 50% improvement in my skin’s appearance.
By 2023, realizing that my current treatments were not giving me the results I sought after, I began to research alternative procedures via Yelp and its reviews. This led me to discover Dr. Hazany, a specialist renowned for his expertise in treating acne scars. I read that people travelled from different countries to be seen by Dr Hazany, when he was only six miles away from my townhouse. After conducting extensive research, I decided to schedule a consultation with him. This decision was particularly urgent as I was aware that I would be relocating to Japan within the next year. Thus, Dr. Hazany represented my final hope for achieving the skin improvement I sought before my move.
Consultation:
The process started with an over the phone consultation with a provider from Dr. Hazany's team, named Abhi, who possessed A LOT of knowledge. He gave me the breakdown of the different phases, initial prices, discussed my personal goals, and he was able to confidently answer all my questions.
A few weeks later, I had an in-person consultation with Dr. Hazany. During this appointment, Dr. Hazany conducted a comprehensive examination of my skin, carefully assessing the extent of my acne scarring. He provided a clear and concise explanation of the procedures he wanted to perform, outlining the step-by-step process and what each phase would entail. Dr. Hazany was remarkably transparent about the expected outcomes, as well as the potential benefits and risks associated with the treatments. His upfront and honest approach helped me to fully understand what to anticipate, ensuring that I had realistic expectations.
I decided to move forward with the process. During the same appointment, Abhi took detailed photos of my skin (photo's below) to document its condition before the treatment, then one of the nurses started phase I of the TCA CROSS treatment.
TCA CROSS:
Dr. Hazany initiated the TCA CROSS (Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars) procedure. Phase I began with a spot test, which involved applying three different concentrations of TCA acid to three distinct scars. This preliminary step was essential to determine which acid concentration would yield the most effective response for my specific type of scarring. The application of the acids caused a slight burning sensation that lasted for a few minutes, resulting in immediate redness at the treatment sites. Within a few days, these areas formed scabs, which naturally peeled off after about a week.
Roughly a month later, Phase II CROSS treatment was conducted. During this session, Dr. Hazany and a nurse applied the most effective concentration of TCA acid, identified from the spot test to all of my scars. This phase of the procedure lasted about an hour and involved a more intense burning sensation compared to the initial spot test. Upon leaving Dr. Hazany’s office, my skin was extremely red, a common and expected reaction. I was advised that the redness would soon turn into scabs and that the peeling process would commence after about a week. Importantly, I was instructed not to manually peel the scabs to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
Two weeks after the procedure all the scabs had peeled off, revealing a noticeable smoothness and scar reduction in my skin. But a month after the procedure, my skin had completely healed and I had about a 10% improvement in my skin. Although I did not get the results, I was hoping for this was definitely a promising start.
I came in for a follow-up, after my skin healed and it was decided that we would proceed with the next process…. Subcision.
Subcision:
A few months following the TCA CROSS procedure, I underwent the subcision procedure with Dr. Hazany. Subcision is a technique in which a fine needle is inserted under the skin to sever the fibrous bands that tether the scars-allowing the skin to elevate and smooth out, thereby significantly diminishing the appearance of deep scars. (Subcision Procedure Here). Despite my initial anxiety, Abhi’s support and reassurance helped alleviate my nervousness. I was administered Xanax and another medication to help me relax, along with a numbing cream to minimize discomfort. After approximately 45 minutes, I was sufficiently sedated and barely aware of the procedure. My memory during the subcision procedure itself is hazy, but I do recall being driven home by my grandmother. Once the sedation wore off, I discovered that I had documented parts of the procedure on Snapchat with Dr. Hazany and had taken numerous photos. My face was thoroughly bandaged, and I was wearing a recovery compression mask to aid in the healing process.
My face hurt like hell for days! The following days were challenging due to significant pain and discomfort. The compression mask provided some relief by reducing the pain, making it possible to sleep. I removed the bandages after 48 hours, revealing a face that was extremely swollen and bruised. The swelling distorted my appearance, but I understood this was a normal part of the recovery process. The bruising subsided after about ten days, though the swelling lingered for weeks.
A month post subcision procedure, I saw substantial improvements in my scarring. I remember looking in the mirror and I started crying because after investing so much time, money, energy, pain, frustrations, and disappointments I had finally noticed results I was hoping for.
I noticed my skin was much smoother, 50% improvement to my forehead, about a 50-75% improvement to my left and right (upper and lower) cheeks. This experience has been transformative-significantly enhancing my self-confidence and overall satisfaction with my appearance.
A video I made immediately after treatment with Dr. Hazany, I do not remember this (lol)
After Treatment
I moved to Japan shortly after my only subcision treatment with Dr. Hazany, so I couldn’t purse additional procedures with him-which he recommended. However, I am grateful for the progress I’ve made and the boost in confidence it has given me. I do not think about my acne scars 24 hours a day anymore, I started to feel comfortable in front of a camera and crowd, overall I am very happy!
Dr. Hazany was my last hope after vowing never to undergo another invasive procedure. But with Dr. Hazany’s (and his team’s) exceptional expertise and the remarkable success of the subcision procedure brought a renewed sense of hope and optimism into my life. His skillful approach and the substantial improvement in my skin's appearance have not only enhanced my physical appearance but also significantly uplifted my overall quality of life and self-esteem. Through his (and his team’s) proficient care, I discovered that even after numerous setbacks, it is possible to achieve meaningful and lasting results.
Pro’s:
Effectiveness: significantly improve the appearance of depressed scars by 50-75%
Immediate Results: although my face was swollen for weeks, I noticed that most of my scars where gone
Lack of Side Effects: I was told about the risks involved but I did not have any unexpected side effects
Outpatient Procedure: I was able to go home after the procedure
Con’s;
Cost: this procedure is not at all cheap, I took on a side hustle of walking dogs to pay for the procedures. On a positive note, Dr. Hazany is military friendly and offers a discount to retired and active service members. (I cannot give you a set price for your treatment because not everyone requires the same level of treatments, I personally spent over $10,000 for the consultation, TCA CROSS, and subcision).
Discomfort: the swelling lasted for about a month and half.
Wrinkle: I noticed after the treatment I had a bigger wrinkle close to my mouth, that was not noticeable pre-procedure
Final Words
Based on my experience with Dr. Hazany I 100% recommend him but please do your research and understand that there are risks when doing these procedures. I do not have all the answers to your scarring needs but if you have questions please reach out. For furthur information here is Dr. Hazany's website.
How it started;
How it's going;
(The first two photos were taken June 2024)