Patients interested in facial rejuvenation now have a variety of minimally-invasive options that offer excellent results without downtime.
Some of the most requested non-surgical treatments include dermal fillers, non-ablative lasers, ultrasound, radiofrequency, and microneedling.
In fact, microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is becoming an increasingly popular choice for facial rejuvenation. It can improve facial tone and texture, smooth wrinkles and fine lines, and increase firmness.
What Is Microneedling With Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Microneedling is also known as collagen induced therapy, and it uses up to 36 surgical-grade needles to create controlled dermal injuries in the skin’s surface. In response to this damage, the body releases growth factors and produces new collagen and elastin.
The addition of PRP to microneedling enhances the wound healing effect and allows the skin to regenerate using its own cells.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Microneedling with PRP is a safe and effective treatment for most healthy adults. It can also be performed on all skin types, unlike certain lasers and peels.
However, individuals with a history of keloids, hypertrophic scarring, inflammatory dermatoses, history of herpes simplex virus in perioral area, or any type of growth in the target area should avoid microneedling.
Absolute contraindications include scleroderma, collagen vascular disease, clotting disorders, active infection, and immunosuppression.
Treatment Process
When patients present for microneedling with PRP, they will receive a topical numbing cream to desensitize the face and cause vasodilation which reduces bleeding. Blood will then be drawn from the patient and placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma.
Next, the microneedling device is used at varying depths, speeds, and number of passes to create micro-channels for collagen growth and absorption of the PRP. At the end of the procedure, PRP is injected into the face.
Some redness and pinpoint bleeding may be visible immediately after treatment. These effects subside within one to two days.
Microneedling with PRP Results
Patients often note improved radiance and firmness within 24 hours. Results typically peak after four weeks with the face appearing clearer, brighter, smoother, and tighter.
Aesthetic experts recommend three or more treatments spaced four weeks apart for optimal effects.
To learn more about microneedling with PRP, please call our office today to schedule an appointment.