Microneedling at Dr. Alan Burke: Facial Plastics & Reconstruction
Automated Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a minimally-invasive treatment option that can reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars and pores while improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin. During microneedling, tiny needles are inserted into the skin, creating controlled micro-injuries. This in turn stimulates the body’s natural healing process, producing collagen and elastin.
Adding Platelet Rich Plasma, or the “Vampire Facial”
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), also called the Vampire Facial, is an innovative aesthetic procedure that combines PRP with microneedling. Blood is drawn from the patient, spun and then applied to the skin during the treatment.
PRP stimulates the production of new collagen and improves the overall texture, tone and vibrancy of the skin. This process “tricks” multipotent stem cells in the skin into thinking that there has been an injury, thus regenerating new tissue. With these microchannels created from microneedling, we send in the most potent growth factor straight into the skin.
How It Works?
Microneedling involves the use of fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin, which stimulate the body’s natural healing process, produce collagen and elastin and overall help the skin to look and feel healthier. As a result, scar tissue is effectively remodeled while the structure of the skin remains intact. Due to the absence of heat and chemicals, microneedling is appropriate for all skin types and skin tones.
What To Expect?
An hour before your treatment, a topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area. The procedure itself usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment area and depth. Patients should feel only a gentle vibration, with minimal discomfort.
A small, needle-clad device is moved gently across the surface of the skin, one area at a time. A nourishing serum or PRP may be applied during and after to infuse into the skin and help the pen glide with ease.
"Dr. Burke and his staff are wonderful! I have great confidence in their professional abilities. Additionally, everyone is always so nice and friendly. I am so glad I was referred to them."
After Your Microneedling Treatment
Immediately post treatment, expect some redness, warmth and inflammation. This typically fades within 2-4 days. The healing and downtime is very similar to a sunburn. By 4-5 days post-treatment, the skin should look smooth and glowy with little side effects.
Keep the area very clean. We will be provide a post-treatment skin care kit. This contains safe products that will not cause irritation and will also aid in healing. Applying proper SPF and sun protection is essential during recovery. This new skin is vulnerable and should be protected!
