Microneedling with PRP in St. Louis, MO
What is Microneedling?
Many people are interested in facial rejuvenation that does not incur weeks of downtime for recovery. Microneedling fits into a category of non-surgical treatments that rejuvenate the skin through the creation of dermal injury. The intent is to prompt neocollagenesis and wound healing. The microneedling technique utilizes a small device with a needle-clad tip. The fine needles mechanically puncture the uppermost dermis at varying depths ranging from 0.1 to 2.5 millimeters.
Alone, microneedling stimulates the production of healing chemicals like cytokines and growth factors. These, in turn, stimulate the production of more collagen and elastin than the body has been making. Neovascularization also increases through the treatment area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
What is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) product found in the blood that contains high concentrations of cytokines and growth factors. Some of the rejuvenating substances in PRP include insulin-like growth factor, transforming growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor. Each substance fulfills a role in tissue regeneration. They affect functions such as cell migration and regulation, attachment proliferation, and the accumulation of extracellular matrix. The healing capacity of PRP has been well-proven in therapeutic areas of medicine such as gastrointestinal surgery, wound healing, bony defects, and more.
How Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Collected?
Benefits of Microneedling with PRP
PRP enhances the neocollagenesis and wound healing effects of microneedling collagen induction therapy. By applying nutrient-dense PRP immediately after micro-injury, we capture the window of regeneration for optimal results.
Microneedling with PRP can address numerous concerns simultaneously. That alone is an enormous benefit. Some of the improvements we see with this treatment include:
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- Less prominent spider veins and broken capillaries
- Reduction in pore size
- Acne scars become less noticeable
- Smoothing of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improved skin firmness and elasticity
- Reduction in sun damage such as spots and rough texture
- Improved dermal circulation results in a healthy glow
Candidates for microneedling treatment
Most adults are good candidates for microneedling. The gentleness of this technique makes it ideal for all skin types and appropriate even for individuals with darker skin. While suitable for people who are not good candidates for laser treatments, microneedling is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. To find out if you are a good candidate, schedule a consultation at our St. Louis office.
Real Patient Testimonial
“I saw Dr. Holds for a cosmetic consultation. He explained everything in detail and was very kind. I will definitely recommend him to family and friends.” – Patient of Dr. Holds
Microneedling With PRP Treatment
Microneedling with PRP begins with a quick blood draw. This takes only a minute or two. While the blood is spinning in the centrifuge, we cleanse the skin and apply topical numbing medication. This will remain on the skin for several minutes to adequately desensitize nerve endings.
You will lay comfortably on the treatment table for your microneedling treatment. One small area may be treated at a time. The depth of microneedles is adjusted for each area. For example, needle depth is shallower on the forehead and deeper in the midface where there is more fatty tissue. After the handheld device has been passed over the skin, PRP is immediately applied. The substance soothes the micro-injuries and enhances the healing response beginning immediately.
Your provider continues to treat individual areas of the face or another part of the body in this manner until all surfaces are touched.
What to Expect after Microneedling Treatment
When will I see my results?
Both microneedling and PRP begin to work immediately. Studies have indicated that patients see more radiant skin right after their treatment. Some notice smoother and tighter skin right after their session or within a few hours.
As time passes and collagen remodeling occurs, the appearance of the skin continues to improve. It takes approximately 3 months for collagen remodeling to take place. As this protein rebuilds the dermal matrix, the skin should appear tighter and firmer.