When home skin care products are no longer effective, but you aren’t ready for surgery, consider nonsurgical treatments to rejuvenate the skin. Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham is pleased to offer microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, at her office in New Jersey. Microneedling uses many fine-gauge needles to effectively and safely make micro-injuries in the skin. These prompt the body’s natural production of elastin and collagen, two nutrients that contribute to the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Often performed with other treatments, including vitamin serums or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), microneedling may help minimize pores, stretch marks, and scars. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ramanadham to hear more about the results of microneedling and ways to personalize your procedure for your skin concerns and goals.
IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR MICRONEEDLING
You could be a candidate for microneedling treatments if you experience slight to mild skin issues, like rough skin texture or low elasticity. Collagen induction therapy treatments may also reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and pores. You must be willing to wait a while before seeing benefits from your microneedling treatment because the elastin and collagen will need some time to have an impact on the complexion; however, you will see natural-looking results and gain healthier overall skin.
HOW IS MICRONEEDLING PERFORMED?
Collagen induction therapy with microneedling is completed in one of our office procedure rooms in around 30 – 60 minutes with numbing cream or a local anesthesia if desired; however, patients typically report little or no discomfort. The skin being treated will be cleaned before the handpiece is passed evenly over the area.
After the microneedling is performed, a treatment, such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or a vitamin-infused serum, may be applied for deeper penetration of the nutrients into the skin. A moisturizer selected for your skin type will be massaged in, along with UV protection because your skin will be more sensitive after the treatment.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER MICRONEEDLING
Following the procedure, you may experience mild swelling and redness for about one day; however, this should fade naturally. It may take about 1 – 2 months as the collagen and elastin levels increase before you notice visible changes in the appearance and health of your treated skin. You should schedule around 4 – 6 maintenance sessions every 4 – 6 weeks for ideal outcomes and long-term skin health.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MICRONEEDLING
How much does microneedling cost?
During your consultation, Dr. Ramanadham will evaluate your skin and then create your custom plan. After this, she will review your treatment costs and the procedure. Our office frequently has specials on treatment packages so ask about our current deals in your appointment.
What exactly is microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure meant to rejuvenate your skin. A natural fibrous protein, collagen helps keep your skin supple, smooth, and tight. Eventually, your supply of collagen is depleted and your skin becomes thin and less elastic. Microneedling causes tiny skin wounds. These micro-injuries cause your skin to increase its collagen production and generate new skin cell growth. After a short recovery period, your skin looks firmer, brighter, and healthier.
Can I combine other treatments with microneedling?
In the microneedling process, channels are created in your skin that help other treatments to penetrate the lower layers. This is why microneedling is commonly combined with other skin treatments, like vitamin-rich serums or platelet-rich plasma (PRP). In your initial consultation, Dr. Ramanadham can talk about what treatments may be performed along with microneedling and which would most benefit your skin.
How many treatments are recommended for optimal results?
Most patients need 3 – 6 sessions to achieve optimal results. However, the number of treatments you require will depend on your skin’s condition and your goals. Microneedling may be safely done every 4 – 6 weeks as needed.
In your initial consultation, Dr. Ramanadham will be able to estimate how many sessions you will need after assessing your skin and listening to your goals. When your skin goals are reached, Dr. Ramanadham recommends getting touch-up sessions about twice a year.
Is microneedling safe for everyone?
On the whole, microneedling is appropriate for all skin types and tones. Since the skin injuries created are so small, there are very few side effects after the treatment. Microneedling can be performed on most areas of skin, including the arms, face, neck, chest, thighs, and calves. Microneedling is not recommended if you’ve been on Accutane within the last 2 – 3 months, as well as if you have an open wound, herpes simplex, or an active skin infection.
In addition, you may not be a candidate for microneedling if you are pregnant, nursing, or undergoing radiation therapy.
NATURAL HEALTH AND RADIANCE
Enhance the appearance and health of your skin with microneedling treatments at our New Jersey office. A nonsurgical treatment that may produce impressive improvements, microneedling prompts your natural production of collagen for firmer, smoother skin. Make an appointment with plastic surgeon Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham to find out more information about this procedure and other complementary skin improvement treatments.
