What is microneedling? Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment used to rejuvenate the skin by boosting the body’s natural production of collagen. At Heights Plastic Surgery, we use the SkinPen® microneedling device which is fitted with several very small, hair-like needles that, when pressed into the skin, create very small injuries called microchannels. These microchannels trigger your body’s natural healing processes which boost collagen production to smooth away fine lines and wrinkles, minimize pore size, reduce acne scarring, and even tighten loose and sagging skin around the face. The SkinPen® is the first FDA-approved microneedling device proven to safely and effectively treat acne scarring in patients 22 and older.
What is Vivace / radiofrequency microneedling? RF Microneedling is a collagen-boosting treatment that uses 36 gold-tipped needles to stamp skin tissue while simultaneously releasing radiofrequency heat. This process causes an inflammatory response in the body which boosts collagen and elastin production. It is a minimally invasive treatment with about only 24 hours of downtime. This treatment is ideal for resurfacing and tightening the skin, great for scarring and uneven skin tissue. While it can help with pigment caused by inflammation, its primary goal is not to treat pigment. Expect to be in the office for about an hour and a half to allow for the topical anesthetic to be applied prior to treatment.
How much does microneedling cost in Houston? The average cost of microneedling in Houston typically ranges from $450 to $850. The total cost for your microneedling treatment will depend on factors including your surgeon’s fee, the location of your procedure, and other miscellaneous medical expenses. At Heights Plastic Surgery, we accept cash and all major credit cards. We are also happy to offer financing through CareCredit® for patients.
How does microneedling work? Before Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks begins your RF microneedling treatment, she will prep your skin by applying a topical anesthetic to your treated area, typically the face, neck and décolletage. She will then systematically press the SkinPen® microneedling device into the skin to ensure even coverage. Following your treatment, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks may also saturate your skin with condition-specific serums to boost your microneedling results and promote the healing process. The entire microneedling treatment process typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.
What should I expect after a microneedling treatment? Because microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment, there is limited downtime / recovery period associated with the procedure for how results-oriented it is! Following treatment, many patients experience their skin being red and sensitive to the sun for the next few days. This is normal and typically resolves on its own. Dr. Downey and Dr. Bullocks advises you to moisturize your face and apply a medical-grade sunscreen every day to ensure a smooth and swift recovery. While many patients may start to see the results of their microneedling treatment within a few days, it typically takes a few weeks to see the ultimate results. Dr. Downey and Dr. Bullocks recommends coming in for regular treatments spaced three to four weeks apart to maintain your desired microneedling results.
Am I a good candidate for microneedling? Good candidates for microneedling treatments with the SkinPen® are in good general health and have realistic expectations of the results they can expect from their treatment. Ideal candidates for microneedling often desire to treat the following concerns: Fine lines and wrinkles Mild sagging facial skin Enlarged pores Acne scarring Uneven skin texture Age spots and sunspots Before a microneedling treatment in Houston at Studio Essex, we instruct all patients to discontinue retinol, Vitamin C, and any active acids starting 3 days prior to their treatment.
