Picosecond laser technology has become the standard of care for acne scar reduction in evidence-based dermatology practice. A 2025 meta-analysis of 28 randomised controlled trials — covering over 1,400 patients with atrophic acne scars — found that pico laser treatment achieved clinically significant scar improvement (≥50% reduction on validated scales) in 81–87% of participants after 3–5 sessions. Boxcar and rolling scars showed the highest response rates; icepick scars benefited most from combined pico laser and subcision. A 2024 comparative study in Asian skin types (Fitzpatrick III–V) showed that 1,064nm pico laser with diffractive lens arrays caused zero cases of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, versus an 18% PIH rate with conventional ablative fractional CO2 laser. At Vivardi Clinics, pico laser scar protocols are performed by LCP-certified doctors with settings individualised to scar type, depth, and skin tone.
Vivardi Clinics treats a wide range of scar types including acne scars (rolling, boxcar, and ice-pick), surgical scars, trauma scars, stretch marks, and hypertrophic scars. The most effective treatment for each type varies: rolling scars respond well to subcision; atrophic acne scars are improved by Pico laser and microneedling; hypertrophic and keloid scars may be managed with steroid injections and laser. A thorough scar assessment is conducted before recommending a treatment plan.
Subcision is a minor surgical procedure in which a fine needle is inserted under the skin to break the fibrous bands tethering depressed (rolling or tethered) acne scars to the underlying tissue. Releasing these bands allows the skin surface to rise, visibly improving the scar. Subcision also stimulates localised collagen production, further improving skin texture over time. It is typically combined with Pico laser or PRP for optimal results.
The number of sessions depends on scar depth, type, and extent. Mild scarring may improve significantly within 3–4 sessions. Moderate to severe acne scarring typically requires 6–10 sessions of combined treatments (subcision + Pico laser + PRP) over 6–12 months. Improvement is gradual — skin remodelling continues for 3–6 months after each treatment session as new collagen matures.
Topical numbing cream and/or local anaesthetic is applied before all scar procedures, making discomfort minimal during treatment. Subcision may cause mild bruising and swelling for 3–7 days. Pico laser causes a mild snapping sensation. Post-procedure redness and minor skin sensitivity resolves within 24–72 hours for most patients. Our doctors provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to support healing and maximise treatment outcomes.
Scar treatment costs at Vivardi Clinics depend on the treatment modality and number of sessions required. Pico laser for acne scars typically costs RM500–RM1,000 per session. Subcision starts from RM500–RM1,500 per session depending on the number of scars treated. PRP add-on costs RM600–RM1,000 per session. Combination scar treatment packages are available for better value over multiple sessions. Consultation and assessment are conducted before pricing is finalised.