Microneedling

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and Scottsdale, AZ

microneedling scottsdale

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure to stimulate collagen production and promote brighter, smoother skin. In the search for an improved complexion, many patients turn to various lotions, serums, ointments, and oils. For most, these products only provide temporary results, if any. That’s because these products don’t reach the deep layers of the skin necessary for effective rejuvenation. Microneedling goes further. Microneedling strategically initiates the body’s restorative processes to erase signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. It’s also been a proven method to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Dr. Robert G. Bonillas and his team at Scottsdale Plastics offer microneedling to patients looking to improve the health and texture of their skin. If you would like to see a smoother, brighter complexion, please schedule an initial consultation at our Scottsdale offices. To speak with a member of our team and learn more, please call our front desk at (480) 245-6380.

The Secret Behind Wrinkles & Fine Lines

Though it often seems like they appear out of nowhere, wrinkles and fine lines are actually years in the making. Wrinkles begin to show in our complexion when collagen levels in our dermis become degraded, and the production of healthy new collagen slows. Collagen is a fibrous, flexible protein that acts as the scaffolding in our skin. It gives our skin its youthful bounce and smoothness and keeps our skin’s structure resistant to gravity. In our youth, our body produces an abundance of collagen. This is to keep up with a growing body. Then, as we step into our mid-twenties, our skin’s collagen production declines. Fibroblast cells produce less collagen to repair and replace existing fibers, which become weakened and disorganized over time. This results in lax skin that wrinkles and creases. By 65, we have lost 60% of our collagen supply.[1] While topicals and supplements promote collagen restoration, they often don’t go far enough to restore our skin’s appearance. However, microneedling is equipped to do that and more!

About Microneedling

Also called collagen induction therapy, microneedling involves puncturing the skin with tiny, hair-like needles to trigger a wound healing response. Our body has a complex response to cuts and knicks on our skin. In fact, there is an intricate dance at play under the skin’s surface. Different physiological processes and properties are moving in sync to close the wound and repair tissue function. Collagen is one of these many restorative materials. With microneedling, we can manipulate the body’s wound healing response to target cosmetic concerns like wrinkles and fine lines. After it undergoes microneedling, the skin is flooded with regenerative factors in an attempt to address the micro-injuries. Over the following weeks, fibroblast cells ramp up collagen production in the treated area to repair and replace damaged collagen.[2] This process helps to firm skin, alleviate the signs of aging, and the appearance of scars.

PRP Microneedling

PRP scottsdale

One way to enhance the results of microneedling is to add platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to a session. In response to an injury, our body sends restorative properties like enriching enzymes, cytokines, and platelets are some of the first responders.[3] Platelets are key materials that incite tissue restoration and regeneration. To add PRP to a microneedling session, we begin by taking a blood draw. Blood consists of red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets. We split the red blood cells from the rest of the components by processing the sample through a centrifuge. At high velocities, the red blood cells divide from the other three that rise to the top. The top layer contains the PRP, which is then formulated into a serum. This serum is 3 to 7 times more concentrated with platelets than normal blood,[4] making it ideal for skin rejuvenation. After microneedling, we introduce this serum to the treated area(s) and allow the micro-channels created by the needles to absorb the organic compounds. By adding even more restorative properties, microneedling with PRP enriches cosmetic results. 

Candidates

Those interested should schedule an initial consultation at our Scottsdale offices. Here, we will be able to check your eligibility for either traditional microneedling or PRP microneedling. Typically, patients who see the best improvement are those who:
  • Have wrinkles and fine lines around their face
  • Have tried various skin rejuvenating options and found few results
  • Are interested in a non-surgical procedure 
  • Don’t have any current viral outbreaks on their face or neck

Microneedling is not only for older patients. Many patients in their 20s and 30s opt for microneedling for preventative measures. Another way to schedule a consultation is to call our offices at (480) 245-6380.

Personal Consultation

If this is your first consultation with us, we will begin with a new patient intake interview and a physical examination. Patients typically have other cosmetic concerns in addition to wrinkles and fine lines. We will note other issues and then recommend corresponding treatments. Next, we will examine your fine lines and wrinkles, noting your skin’s laxity. We may recommend other complementary services like injectables. Injectables are ideal for spot-reducing wrinkles and fine lines with skin-safe solutions. Be sure to ask which injectable is best for achieving your desired results. 

Preparation

Because this is a non-surgical procedure, preparation will be minimal. If you are worried about pain or discomfort, we do apply a numbing cream before microneedling. 

Procedure

We will begin by having you lie back in your own private treatment room. If you have opted to add PRP into your session, we will take a blood draw and run the vial through a centrifuge. We will extract the PRP from the sample, and formulate a nourishing serum. Then, we will administer the numbing cream. After it has taken effect, we will apply the microneedling device in an even layer of coverage over your entire face. The microneedles penetrate the different areas of facial skin at strategic depths to adequately address your unique skin concerns. These tiny needles will make channels in the skin that reach deep into the dermis. After we have treated your skin, we will apply the PRP serum evenly to your face. The micro-channels allow this serum to penetrate deep into the skin, where the added boost of regenerative properties will enhance the effects of the microneedling. After we have completed this session, your face will be cleansed, and you will be able to return to your day.

Recovery

Skin rejuvenation Scottsdale

Recovery after this procedure is simple. Your face might feel a little tender and appear red. These side effects will subside over the next couple of days. We recommend staying well-hydrated, avoiding excess sun, and not applying any harsh products for the next day or two. After your procedure, we will give you detailed after-care instructions. 

Other Facial Rejuvenating Procedures

In addition to microneedling, we offer other facial rejuvenating services –– one of which is skin resurfacing. We use the Lumenis Stella laser to treat more than 30 skin conditions. From acne to unwanted tattoos to uneven tone and texture, the Lumenis Stella laser resurfaces the skin safely and effectively to unveil your inner beauty. This laser is unique in the world of cosmetic lasers because the Lumenis Stella laser changes wavelengths. Not all blemishes exist on the same layer of skin. Blemishes like acne scars are deeper than more superficial conditions like sunspots. By changing the wavelength, we can treat multiple conditions during one simple session. Unlike other lasers, the Lumenis Stella is safe for all skin types. So, be sure to ask how we can seamlessly add skin resurfacing into your comprehensive treatment plan. 

How Much Does Microneedling Cost in Scottsdale?

The cost of your microneedling treatment will depend on the number of sessions and the therapeutic measures we perform during your care. We will discuss and determine the cost of your treatment during your initial consultation. Many of our previous patients have shared insightful reviews about their time with us. Be sure to read them on our reviews page. Finally, if you have any questions about this or any other facial rejuvenation or plastic surgery procedures, please call our front offices at (480) 245-6380.

References

  1. Reilly, D. M., & Lozano, J. (2021). Skin collagen through the life stages: importance for skin health and beauty. Plastic and Aesthetic Research, 2021. https://doi.org/10.20517/2347-9264.2020.153 
  2. Gonzalez, A. C., Costa, T. F., Andrade, Z. A., & Medrado, A. R. (2016). Wound healing – A literature review. Anais brasileiros de dermatologia, 91(5), 614–620. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20164741
  3. Sinno, H., & Prakash, S. (2013). Complements and the Wound Healing Cascade: An Updated Review. Plastic Surgery International, 2013, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/146764
  4. Hesseler, M. J., & Shyam, N. (2019). Platelet-rich plasma and its utility in medical dermatology: A systematic review. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 81(3), 834–846. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2019.04.037