About Fascia and Scar Hydrodissection
Fascia is the thin connective tissue that wraps and separates muscles. After surgery, an injury, or long periods of overuse, fascia and scar tissue can thicken and stick to nearby layers. This may cause pulling, pain, or restricted movement, and sometimes irritates small nerves that pass through the area.
With hydrodissection, Dr. Chen uses ultrasound to see the tissue layers and injects fluid between them, gently separating areas that have become stuck. The fluid may be saline alone or mixed with other medicines chosen for the area.
Hydrodissection is paired with movement, stretching, and strengthening so the tissue keeps gliding after the procedure.
What happens during treatment
- 1.
Dr. Chen examines the area and uses ultrasound to see where tissue layers are stuck or thickened.
- 2.
The skin is cleaned and numbed.
- 3.
Under live ultrasound, fluid is injected between the tissue layers to separate them.
- 4.
You go home the same day with a movement and stretching plan.
Who may be a good candidate
- People with painful or tight scars after surgery or injury.
- People with tight bands of fascia that limit motion or cause pulling pain.
- People with small nerves irritated by scar tissue.
- Patients who have tried stretching and manual therapy without enough relief.
Recovery
Most people return to normal activity the same or next day. Mild soreness is common for a day or two. Continuing movement and stretching at home helps keep the tissue layers gliding, and some people benefit from more than one session.
Risks and limits
Risks include soreness, bruising, bleeding, infection, and irritation of a nearby nerve, all uncommon. Symptoms may improve only partly, and scar tissue can tighten again without regular movement. Hydrodissection is not given over infected skin or an open wound, and blood thinners should be reviewed ahead of time.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about Scar Hydrodissection
- Can hydrodissection help a scar from surgery?
- It can help some painful or tight surgical scars, especially when the scar sticks to deeper layers or irritates a small nerve. Dr. Chen will examine the scar with ultrasound to see whether it is a good fit.
- Is this the same as nerve hydrodissection?
- The technique is similar, but the target is different. Nerve hydrodissection frees a specific nerve, while fascia and scar hydrodissection loosens connective tissue and scar layers.
- How soon will I notice a difference?
- Some people notice easier movement soon after the procedure, while others improve gradually as they keep up with stretching and strengthening. Results vary with the type and age of the scar.