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Subcision for Cellulite: A Medical Approach

Subcision is a minimally invasive medical procedure that addresses moderate to severe cellulite. It works by breaking the fibrous bands under the skin that cause characteristic depressions.

September 27, 2026
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What is subcision and how does it work?

Subcision is a medical procedure designed to treat cellulite, specifically that which presents with visible depressions and dimples in the skin. Unlike other treatments that act on the surface, subcision focuses on the underlying structural cause.

It involves the introduction of a special needle, called a Nokor needle or similar, under the skin to release the fibrous bands that pull the surface downwards. These bands are responsible for creating the appearance of “orange peel skin” or the characteristic dimples of cellulite.

By breaking these fibers, the skin is released and elevated, reducing the depression and improving the uniformity of the skin surface. In addition, subcision stimulates the production of new collagen in the treated area, which contributes to a long-term improvement in skin quality and firmness.

Who is an ideal candidate for subcision?

Subcision is an effective treatment for people with moderate to severe cellulite, especially those with well-defined and persistent dimples. It is important to note that it is not a treatment for edematous or flaccid cellulite, where the main problem is fluid retention or skin laxity.

Ideal candidates are usually people with a stable weight and realistic expectations about the results. During the initial medical consultation, our team will evaluate your type of cellulite and determine if subcision is the most appropriate treatment for you, or if you would benefit more from a combination of therapies.

The step-by-step procedure at Santé Clínica Estética

At Santé, subcision is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Our board-certified medical team follows a strict protocol to guarantee your safety and the best possible results.

Process of subcision for cellulite
Process of subcision for cellulite

Recovery and expected results

After the procedure, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treated areas, which usually subside in one to two weeks. It is recommended to avoid intense physical activity for a few days and follow the specific instructions of our medical team to optimize recovery.

The results of subcision begin to be visible as swelling decreases and collagen regenerates, generally in the weeks following treatment. The improvement in cellulite is progressive and the final results can be fully appreciated at three to six months. Results vary by individual, but many patients experience a significant and lasting reduction in dimples.

“Subcision allows us to address cellulite from its origin, offering an effective solution for depressions that other superficial treatments cannot correct. It is a key tool in our personalized approach.”

Dr. Sol Monsalve, Medical Director of Santé Clínica Estética

How Santé Clínica Estética approaches it

At Santé Clínica Estética, subcision for cellulite is integrated into a personalized treatment plan. Each protocol begins with a thorough medical evaluation, where our board-certified doctors assess your history, skin type, and specific cellulite characteristics.

Our approach focuses on patient safety and obtaining natural and harmonious results. We can complement subcision with other therapies such as body mesotherapy or INDIBA radiofrequency, depending on individual needs, to optimize skin quality and address other aesthetic concerns.

We offer a free aesthetic consultation where you can discuss your concerns and receive a tailored treatment proposal. Our multilingual team, speaking Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Russian, is available to assist you at our clinic on Avenida Diagonal 384, Barcelona.

Key points

  • Subcision is a medical procedure to treat dimpled cellulite.
  • It releases the fibrous bands that cause depressions in the skin.
  • It stimulates collagen production, improving skin quality long-term.
  • It is performed under local anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure.
  • Results are progressive and fully appreciated in 3-6 months.
  • It can be combined with other treatments for optimal results.

Frequently asked questions

Is subcision painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Afterwards, you may feel tenderness or mild pain in the treated area, manageable with common analgesics.

How many subcision sessions do I need?

Most patients achieve significant improvement with one or two sessions, depending on the extent and severity of the cellulite. Our doctor will determine the number of sessions needed during your initial consultation.

Are there contraindications for subcision?

Yes, there are some contraindications, such as clotting disorders, pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infections in the area to be treated, or certain autoimmune diseases. We always perform a complete medical evaluation to ensure that the treatment is safe for you.

How much does subcision for cellulite cost at Santé?

The cost of subcision can vary depending on the extent of the area to be treated and the complexity of the case. We invite you to a free consultation to obtain an accurate and personalized quote.

How long do the results of subcision last?

The results of subcision are long-lasting, as the structural causes of cellulite are addressed and collagen production is stimulated. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to preserving long-term results.

Generalitat de Catalunya - Departament de Salut - Direcció General d'Ordenació i Regulació SanitàriaFinanciado por la Unión Europea - NextGenerationEU, Gobierno de España, ENISA, Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia