Skin rejuvenation without the need for surgery is possible. Microneedling, an innovative minimally invasive technique, can be used to help enhance skin tone and texture, treat acne scarring, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and achieve other common cosmetic goals with little downtime. Our extensively trained plastic surgeons—Dr. Brian Braithwaite and Dr. Lorri Cobbins—use the state-of-the-art SkinPen® microneedling system to release growth factors that can lead to visibly younger-looking skin on the face and body.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a nonsurgical cosmetic treatment that uses the body’s natural healing processes to help rejuvenate the skin. The SkinPen® device is equipped with fourteen microneedles that create 1,600 channels (or micro-injuries) in the skin per second, which stimulate remodeling of collagen and elastin. With microneedling, the patient’s immune system is triggered, causing a cascade reaction that leads to firmer, smoother, and more radiant skin in the treated area. Microneedling can also reduce the appearance of acne scars and is considered appropriate for all skin types.
How Does Microneedling Work?
The SkinPen® is a special tool that can only be used by medical professionals. During your initial consultation, one of our plastic surgeons will determine if microneedling is right for your needs and goals. To begin the procedure, a topical anesthetic will be applied to the skin’s surface to help enhance comfort. Next, the SkinPen® will be drawn across the treatment area to create tiny micro-channels, effectively encouraging the skin’s natural healing response. After the procedure, additional topical products can be used on the skin for more comprehensive enhancement. Microneedling makes it easier for beneficial formulas of skin care products to absorb more deeply, thus providing more effective treatment.
On What Areas of the Body Can Microneedling Be Used?
The SkinPen® needle depth can be adjusted to provide optimal treatment for a wide array of body areas. The most popular locations include the face, neck, décolletage, and hands. Other regions can also be addressed, particularly if you want to minimize the appearance of scars on other parts of the body. At the time of the consultation, your doctor will speak with you about your concerns and discuss if microneedling can help.
How Long Is Recovery Following Microneedling?
Everyone heals at their own unique rate. That said, most patients experience some minor swelling and redness initially, with effects fading within 1-2 days—sometimes in less than 24 hours. You can generally return to normal activity, including work, the same day as your treatment. As your skin heals, you will begin to see improvements in quality, tone, and texture. These benefits usually continue for multiple weeks after treatment as new collagen and elastin continue to grow.
How Much Does Microneedling Cost?
The price of microneedling will vary from person to person depending on the size and number of areas treated. Additionally, microneedling works best with multiple sessions, so the specific number of treatments needed to achieve your desired outcome may also impact the total expense. In most cases, four to six treatments will be recommended. Estimates for microneedling range from around $500 to over $700 per session*, although these numbers do not necessarily reflect the cost at our practice. We want you to feel comfortable and confident with your treatment plan, and our team will go over all payment information before moving forward with microneedling.
Interested in learning more about microneedling? Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation to see if SkinPen® treatment is right for you.
*According to RealSelf.com reviews.