Microneedling
Dr. Brock Lanier, MD, FACS | OncoPlastic Surgery in Newport Beach
How It Works
Microneedling is a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using a device with multiple fine needles. It is particularly good at reducing the appearance of scars (from acne or surgery), and it improves the overall skin tone and texture with fewer wrinkles and fine lines. It is sometimes known as collagen induction therapy.
Microneedling: at a glance
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Microneedling is typically considered a superficial treatment.
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Non-surgical, performed in the clinic.
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Usually 30-60 minutes. Most patients benefit from topical numbing medicine.
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Microneedling, while generally considered safe, carries some potential risks:
Skin Irritation: redness, swelling, mild discomfort, dryness, & flaking. These are common side effects that usually subside within a few days.
More Serious Risks (Less Common):
Bruising
Infection: It is very important that the needle cartridges never be re-used, or shared between patients.
Pigmentation Changes: Temporary or permanent changes in skin color, particularly in people with darker skin tones.
Due to these potential risks and complications, it is recommended to choose an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.
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At home. There may be some redness and mild discomfort after the procedure, but downtime is usually minimal/none.
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Wait until any redness or discomfort that develops completely goes away before resuming strenuous activities and exercises. It will be important to avoid direct sun exposure and wear sun protection.
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You might see initial results within a few days or weeks, but it usually takes several months to see full results. Maximal effects typically occur after three months, when collagen has fully formed. Multiple sessions repeated at regular intervals achieve the best results.
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Depending on a patient’s individual concerns, microneedling can be combined with many other treatments including BroadBand Light (BBL), Botox, and fillers. Most patients combine it with repeat treatments, spaced apart about 6 weeks.
Keep in mind this is general information about a typical or usual experience. Individual experiences can vary.
Treatment Areas & Concerns
The most common area treated is the face, neck, chest, arms, & hands. However, microneedling can be performed almost anywhere. Stretch marks on the stomach and thighs are popular targets for treatment.
What are the benefits and risks?
Microneedling Benefits
Reduced Appearance of Scars: Can help fade acne, surgical, and other types of scarring (including stretch marks). It will not completely erase scars.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture: Can help even out skin tone, minimize the appearance of large pores, and improve overall skin texture.
Reduced Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with the stimulation of increased collagen production.
Increased Product Absorption: Can enhance the absorption of topical skincare products.
Microneedling Risks
While generally safe, the microneedling does carry some potential risks and side effects. These include:
Skin Irritation: redness, swelling, mild discomfort, dryness, & flaking. These are common side effects that usually subside within a few days.
More Serious Risks (Less Common):
Bruising
Bleeding: More likely in individuals with bleeding disorders or those on blood thinners.
Infection: never re-use or share needle cartridges.
Pigmentation Changes: Temporary or permanent changes in skin color, particularly in people with darker skin tones.
Very rarely, scarring and/or nerve damage (including numbness and/or tingling) can occurs, especially if the procedure is not performed correctly.
Due to these potential risks and complications, it is recommended to choose an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.
Who is it for?
Microneedling typically has no downtime and a short overall recovery. It can restore & improve the skin’s appearance, as well as help maintain skin health. Good candidates are individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and are looking to address issues like:
Scarring
Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven skin tone or texture
Microneedling is one of the most popular options for both men and women in all age groups.
How is it performed?
It is performed in the comfort of the clinic.
The skin is cleaned and a numbing cream is usually applied to the treatment area.
A pen-shaped device with tiny needles is moved across the skin, creating tiny punctures. It usually takes about 30-45 minutes to perform.
The micro-injuries help release and improve scars, and they stimulate the skin's natural healing response to trigger more collagen and elastin production. This helps improve skin texture, firmness, and its overall appearance.
Multiple sessions are typically required to achieve the best results.
After your treatment…
Immediately after the treatment, your skin will likely:
Look red and feel warm, similar to a mild to moderate sunburn
Feel tighter than usual
Be more sensitive
These effects are normal and usually subside within 24-48 hours.
Recovery & Results
At home. Usually there is no downtime but the healing process goes through phases. It will be very important to moisturize and avoid direct sun exposure/wear sun protection.
First Few Days
During the first 2-3 days post-treatment:
Redness and sensitivity may persist
Mild swelling and possible bruising might occur
The skin may feel dry, flaky, and itchy
You might experience some pinpoint bleeding
Recovery Timeline
Days 1-2: Your skin will be red, sensitive, and possibly swollen.
Days 3-5: Redness and sensitivity should start to improve. Skin may sometimes flake or peel. You might feel mild itching or tingling.
Days 6-10: Flaking and peeling may continue. Skin may feel dry or rough if moisturizers are not used regularly.
Days 11-14: Most of the visible healing is complete, though some mild redness or discoloration may persist.
Visible improvements in skin tone and texture typically start to appear 2-4 weeks after the procedure. Collagen and elastin production increases, leading to improved skin firmness and elasticity.
Full results may continue to develop for several months.
Repeat microneedling is usually performed after about 6 weeks in order to achieve the best results.
