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Microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that improves the texture of the skin. It can tighten moderately sagging skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and dramatically improve scar tissue, resulting in a reduced scar appearance. Dr. Pollack offers microneedling using the SkinPen® device, the first FDA-approved microneedling device on the market.

Table of Contents:

Will Microneedling Help Me?

How Is Microneedling Performed?

Does Microneedling Work?

What Is Recovery Like After Microneedling?

How Long Do Microneedling Results Last?

Can I Combine Microneedling With Other Treatments?

How Much Does Microneedling Cost?

Do You Want to Learn More About Microneedling in San Diego?

Will Microneedling Help Me?

Microneedling treatments help people with a series of conditions. Some of the treatable conditions include:

  • Acne scars
  • General scarring
  • Fine wrinkles and lines
  • Rough skin
  • Skin discoloration
  • Stretch marks
  • Skin laxity

If you have any of these or similar concerns related to your skin, microneedling with the SkinPen® may help.

How Is Microneedling Performed?

Microneedling is a simple procedure. First, the target area is cleaned thoroughly to ensure there are no contaminants on the skin. Your technician will apply a topical treatment to keep the skin hydrated during treatment. Then, they will roll the SkinPen® device over the targeted area.

 

The SkinPen® device deploys a series of microscopic-sized needles into the top layers of the skin, creating superficial surface wounds that are immediately targeted by your body’s natural healing response. The needles are so small they can slip between individual skin cells.

 

The microneedling process does not hurt but may create an itchy or tingling sensation.

Does Microneedling Work?

Microneedling treatments are highly effective. As the microabrasions occur, the skin will react by creating new collagen and thicker skin. This process will stimulate new skin growth, reducing the size, prominence, and toughness of treated scar tissue.

 

The increase in collagen will cause the skin to become tougher, more flexible, and less susceptible to wrinkles or sagging. This is a well-understood process that can create excellent results without the need for surgery.

What Is Microneedling With PRP?

Microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) takes the results of traditional microneedling up a notch by combining the collagen-stimulating treatment with the powerful growth factors of your platelet-rich plasma.

 

Platelet-rich plasma is a derivative of your blood that contains a high potency of growth factors. These growth factors help with collagen stimulation, cell turnover, and the healing process.

 

To perform microneedling with PRP, a blood sample is taken and spun through a centrifuge that isolates the powerful growth factor-rich plasma from the red blood cells. This plasma is then applied back to the skin and microneedled into the surface to penetrate the skin.

What Is Recovery Like After Microneedling?

The good news is that microneedling treatments require no downtime. After treatment, you may experience skin redness or minor swelling. These symptoms are usually minor and pass within a day or two.

 

Patients with sensitive skin may find the treated areas are itchy for a few days as the microabrasions heal.

 

You should keep your treated skin out of direct sunlight as much as possible for a week following treatment. This will allow the new skin cells to grow without damage from ultraviolet light.

What Results Should I Expect After Microneedling?

Most patients will see the results of their treatment within two to six weeks. Patients will experience reduced scarring, smoother and tighter skin, and a youthful glow.

 

Microneedling treatments cause your skin to regenerate for a few weeks. This means that your skin will have a period of rapid growth before returning to normal.

How Long Do Microneedling Results Last?

The results of microneedling can last between a few months and a few years, depending on lifestyle factors.

 

If you take good care of your skin and prevent sun exposure, your skin may stay healthy and younger-looking for a year or two. However, the beneficial effects of the treatment may begin to fade within a couple of months if you experience excessive skin damage. The good news is, there are no limits on the number of treatments you can undergo.

 

Some patients choose to get periodic treatments to ensure that their skin remains healthy and firm. Patients should try to get touch-up treatments every two to four months—this will ensure the skin is constantly repaired.

Can I Combine Microneedling With Other Treatments?

Yes. Microneedling treatments can be used before and after many plastic surgery procedures. This treatment can reduce the appearance of scarring after surgical operations. Patients who are recovering from the following should ask their surgeon about using microneedling treatments:

Microneedling treatments can also work well with non-surgical treatments as well such as:

Microneedling can enhance other treatments by causing the skin to enter a period of rapid growth. This can help you recover faster from other procedures and ensure better results in a shorter time.

How Much Does Microneedling Cost?

The cost of microneedling varies considerably depending on where you go for treatment, what areas you want to be treated, and the number of treatments you choose to undergo. Some patients are completely satisfied after one treatment, while others may choose up to six or more to achieve optimal results.

Do You Want to Learn More About Microneedling in San Diego?

If you want to learn more about microneedling in San Diego, please contact us on our website or call at 858-450-9100 . We will be happy to answer any questions you have.

 

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Dr. Pollack is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is dedicated to providing patients with safe and effective procedures. He has over 20 years of experience in the field of plastic surgery and looks forward to meeting you. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Pollack, please call our La Jolla practice at 858-450-9100 today.