Microneedling For Post-Surgical Scars – How It Works

Microneedling has emerged as a revolutionary treatment for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of scars, particularly those resulting from surgery. This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulate the body's natural healing processes and promote the production of collagen and elastin. For individuals struggling with post-surgical scars, microneedling offers a promising solution to enhance skin smoothness and restore confidence. In this blog, we delve into the benefits, techniques, and considerations of using microneedling for post-surgical scars, providing a comprehensive guide to help you understand how this treatment can transform scarred skin.

Understanding microneedling

Microneedling, often referred to as collagen induction therapy, is a non-invasive treatment designed to stimulate collagen production. The procedure involves creating microscopic punctures in the skin, which prompts the body to initiate a healing response as if addressing an injury. This response leads to the generation of new collagen and skin cells, resulting in improved skin health and appearance.

During a standard microneedling session, patients aim to enhance skin texture and maintain a youthful, supple look. This technique is particularly effective for treating acne scars, as the boosted collagen production helps to fill in and smooth out atrophic scars.

Additionally, people turn to microneedling for overall skin rejuvenation to maintain a smooth, radiant, and youthful complexion. It can also address sun spots and sun damage, diminish wrinkles and fine lines, and promote a more even skin tone.

The effects of microneedling on post-surgical scars

When microneedling is performed on surgical scars, the procedure stimulates collagen production in the scarred area. This helps to improve the texture and smoothness of both the scar and the surrounding skin. Complementary esthetic treatments, such as laser therapy or chemical peels, can further enhance the appearance by lightening scars.

Microneedling for post-surgical scars is effective for reducing the visibility of scars from various types of surgeries, as well as cosmetic ones, and can be applied to nearly any area of the body. Patients commonly seek this treatment for scars in prominent areas such as the face, legs, and abdomen, but microneedling can be used on almost any healed surgical scar.

Surgical scars can look raised and rough even when well-healed and can sometimes catch on clothing. Provided the scars heal well, their texture can be improved with microneedling. 

Microneedling can benefit scars of any age. However, the results will often be better with newer scars, although older scars will show a moderate improvement after the procedure.

What to expect during the microneedling procedure

When you arrive for your microneedling appointment, the technician will start by changing out the needles in the FDA-approved Skinpen device. The settings are then adjusted to the necessary depth which is determined by the whereabouts of the scar on the body.

Typically a topical cream is applied at the site to help ease any discomfort. The device is then slowly moved across the scar and the nearby skin. Moving the pen gently over the site two or three times helps stimulate the growth of collagen around the scar.

How many sessions are needed?

Most of our patients need between 3 and 6 microneedling sessions before they see noticeable improvements in their scarring. This is because the body takes time to produce and build up collagen. 

Depending upon their body’s healing ability, everyone responds differently to microneedling treatment. 3 sessions may be all one patient needs whereas another may need 6. At Gilded Leaf, we’ll help you draw up a microneedling plan to treat your scarring. 

How long will it take to see results?

As mentioned above, how quickly you see results depends on how fast your body responds and heals to microneedling. Usually, treatment sessions are scheduled four to six weeks apart, so many patients start to notice an improvement after their second or third session. Similar to the last stage of healing which is new skin, collagen takes time to produce and accumulate. Some patients will see results faster than others. This is perfectly normal because every scar is different and everybody heals at varying times.

Microneedling and post-surgical scars – Recovery

Immediately following your microneedling session, your skin will appear red and slightly tender, like you have mild sunburn. During this period, your skin is more sensitive, so it's crucial to apply sunscreen and keep the treated area covered when possible. Our technician will provide detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your skin type, tone, and specific scarring.

In general, it's advisable to avoid sun exposure for at least a week and follow the recommended scar care regimen. Proper aftercare will promote collagen production and maintain skin health, enhancing the results of microneedling for post-surgical scar reduction.

The side effects mentioned should diminish within a few days. Generally, patients experience minimal disruption to their daily activities following microneedling treatments. Individuals with sensitive skin can still opt for the procedure, though they might experience more irritation afterward. At Gilded Leaf Medspa, our technician will offer personalized aftercare advice tailored to your specific needs.

Are you considering microneedling for post-surgical scars?

Schedule a consultation to find out if you're a suitable candidate. During the consultation, we'll discuss your scarring concerns, esthetic goals, and medical history. We'll also conduct a skin analysis to determine if microneedling for scar reduction will achieve your desired results. If it does, we'll create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

We offer Skinpen Microneedling which has many benefits over traditional microneedling. Contact Gilded Leaf MedSpa today at 314 899 5033 or consider joining our Membership to save money on all our services.