Introduction
In the bustling city of New York, the pursuit of beauty and youthful skin is a constant. Microneedling, a revolutionary skin rejuvenation procedure, has gained significant popularity in recent years. This article will delve into the world of microneedling in New York City, exploring what it is, its benefits, and introducing some of the top plastic surgery hospitals that offer this treatment.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to resurface the skin and improve its overall texture. The treatment uses tiny needles to cause controlled damage to the skin, prompting a natural healing response. This healing process clears away surface damage and increases collagen production, resulting in a rejuvenating, anti - aging effect.
According to various sources, microneedling can help treat a wide range of common skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin tone
- Mild skin laxity
- Acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Stretch marks
One of the significant advantages of microneedling is that it requires little to no downtime, making it a safe and convenient option for almost anyone. It is also suitable for those who prefer non - heat or laser - based treatments and is typically safe for all skin types and tones.
Types of Microneedling
There are several advanced technologies available for microneedling in New York City plastic surgery hospitals. Here are some of the most common types:
Dermapen®
Dermapen® is a well - known and reliable microneedling device. It is a motorized, handheld device that can be used on the face or body to treat signs of aging, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and more. The Dermapen uses a unique, spring - loaded stamping technology. Its tiny needles rapidly pierce the skin at a ninety - degree angle at a physician - controlled depth, creating micro - injuries that stimulate the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. Ideal candidates for Dermapen® microneedling are those who want to improve their complexion and are in overall good health with realistic expectations. However, it may not be recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or those with an active skin infection in the treatment area.
Morpheus8
Microneedling can be made even more powerful with the addition of radiofrequency energy, and Morpheus8 is an advanced RF microneedling device. It can treat both the face and body. By delivering radio frequencies into deeper dermal layers after the microneedling device penetrates the skin, Morpheus8 creates additional micro - injuries that further stimulate collagen production. The heat generated through this process also contracts subdermal tissues, which helps in reducing skin laxity and excess fat, leaving the area firmer, smoother, and more sculpted.
Aquagold® Fine Touch™
This innovative device combines microneedling with injectables. The microinjection system delivers customized infusions deep into the dermis, where they are better absorbed and more effective. Depending on the patient's needs and goals, an Aquagold® treatment can include Botox®, dermal fillers, and powerful skin care serums to hydrate and revive the complexion. Another popular injectable to include in the Aquagold® infusion is platelet - rich plasma (PRP), which is derived from the patient's own blood and is rich in stem cells and growth factors.
Top Microneedling Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Rapaport Plastic Surgery offers multiple advanced technologies for microneedling. Their experienced providers evaluate the patient's skin and discuss their goals to determine the most suitable microneedling treatment. In addition to Dermapen®, Morpheus8, and Aquagold® Fine Touch™, they ensure a personalized approach. For Dermapen® treatments, they first apply a numbing cream to minimize discomfort. After the procedure, they apply PRP, exosomes, or another customized topical serum to enhance benefits and minimize side effects. The recovery process is relatively quick, with patients usually able to resume their normal activities soon, although they may experience some redness and swelling that subsides within a couple of days.
Park Plaza Plastic Surgery
At Park Plaza Plastic Surgery, certified Dr. George Lefkovits offers microneedling treatments. The procedure starts with numbing the area using a topical numbing cream to ensure a comfortable experience. Then, a microneedling pen is used to create small puncture points in the skin. The body responds to these punctures by producing collagen and elastin, rejuvenating the skin. Ideal candidates for microneedling at this hospital include those who want to reduce crow’s feet, fine lines, and wrinkles, tighten skin, reduce sun damage and hyperpigmentation, eliminate stretch marks, treat scars (including acne scars), and shrink pores. Depending on the patient's skin condition and desired look, several treatments may be required.
New York Facial Plastic Surgery (Dr. Andrew Jacono)
Dr. Andrew Jacono, a dual - board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, offers a unique combination of microneedling and growth factor - enriched plasma harvest. He usually uses the Dermapen in his microneedling treatments. The Dermapen manually resurfaces the skin and has a more precise stamping technology. Applying growth factors during and after microneedling enhances and restores face and neck skin. The growth factors are full of platelets, which help tissue heal and sprout new cells, promoting collagen production and the regeneration of damaged tissue. Dr. Jacono recommends a series of microneedling treatments for longer - lasting results and offers package pricing for multiple sessions.
Shafer Plastic Surgery
Shafer Plastic Surgery provides different microneedling options. They offer the Candela Medical Grade Exceed microneedling device, which is an advanced technology with an ergonomic design, preventing user fatigue and overheating of the handpiece. It has a high - precision adjustable needle speed and an adjustable penetration depth (0.0mm - 1.5mm) for individualized results. This device is suitable for healthy men and women to treat the appearance of facial wrinkles and facial acne scars. They also offer Aquagold microneedling and platelet - rich plasma (PRP) treatments in combination with microneedling, which can improve skin texture, pores, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
Maman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Daniel Y. Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery is well - versed in microneedling. He specializes in microneedling using the Aquagold microinfusion system, allowing him to inject customized treatment solutions under the skin. The practice provides a comprehensive approach, from in - depth initial consultations to attentive aftercare. Before the procedure, Dr. Maman conducts a complete medical history review and physical assessment. After the treatment, patients receive complimentary scar - treatment regimens and routine aftercare visits. Microneedling at this hospital can help with various skin issues such as surgical or acne scars, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, stretch marks, and dark under - eye circles.
Neinstein Plastic Surgery
Neinstein Plastic Surgery specializes in microneedling treatments as a simple, low - downtime option for skin rejuvenation. The procedure involves numbing the skin with a special numbing medication and then using a handheld device with tiny needles to create micro - punctures. Patients can feel a “tingling” sensation but usually no pain. The new collagen formed as a result of the procedure gives the skin a better appearance and texture. The hospital can tailor the treatments according to the patient's desired downtime. The typical protocol has the patient's skin red in the office and pink overnight, and most patients can resume normal activities later in the day.
Naidu Plastic Surgery (Dr. Nina S. Naidu)
Dr. Nina S. Naidu offers automated micro - needling (collagen induction therapy) at her clinic. During the procedure, controlled micro - injuries are created in the skin using a sterile micropen® needle head to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. The procedure is normally completed within 30 minutes. After the treatment, the skin may be red and flushed, but this usually subsides within 24 hours. The hospital also provides detailed pre - and post - treatment instructions. Patients need to stop certain medications like retinol and aspirin before the procedure and follow specific skincare routines after the treatment.
Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling offers numerous benefits beyond just treating skin concerns:
- Minimal Downtime: Unlike some invasive procedures, microneedling allows patients to quickly return to their normal lives. Most patients can resume their daily activities within a day or two, although they may need to take some precautions like avoiding makeup for a short period.
- Natural - Looking Results: Since microneedling stimulates the body's natural healing process, the results are more subtle and natural - looking compared to some other cosmetic treatments. It enhances the skin's appearance by improving its texture and tone rather than making drastic changes.
- Suitability for All Skin Types: Whether you have fair, medium, or dark skin, microneedling is generally a safe option. It does not use heat like laser treatments, which means it is less likely to cause issues related to skin pigmentation.
- Versatility: Microneedling can be combined with other treatments such as PRP therapy or injectables like Botox and dermal fillers to further enhance the results. This allows for a more customized treatment plan based on the patient's specific needs.
Preparing for a Microneedling Procedure
Before undergoing a microneedling procedure, it is important to take certain steps to ensure the best results and minimize any potential risks:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon or skin care professional. During this consultation, they will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and determine if microneedling is the right treatment for you. They will also go over your medical history to identify any potential contraindications.
- Stop Certain Medications: Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding or other complications during the procedure. You may be asked to stop taking anticoagulant therapy, aspirin, or high - dose nonsteroidal anti – inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for 14 days prior to treatment. If you take Accutane, you should not have a treatment for one year.
- Avoid Skin Irritants: Discontinue topical retinoids or other skin irritants for a minimum of 3 - 5 days prior to treatment. This helps to prevent any additional irritation to the skin during the microneedling process.
- Sun Protection: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use a broad - spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher in the weeks leading up to the procedure. Sun - damaged skin can be more sensitive during microneedling, and sun protection is crucial for post - treatment recovery as well.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
During the Procedure
The microneedling procedure typically begins with the application of a topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area. This helps to minimize any discomfort. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the plastic surgeon or skin care professional will use a microneedling device to create tiny punctures in the skin. The depth of the punctures depends on the skin condition being treated. For example, acne scars may require deeper treatments compared to fine lines. The entire procedure usually takes between 15 - 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
After the Procedure
Immediately after the procedure, the treated area may be red and slightly swollen, similar to a mild sunburn. There may also be some minor pinpoint bleeding, which usually stops within a few minutes. Patients may experience mild tingling or tightness of the skin. It is normal for the redness and swelling to last for a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the intensity of the treatment. During the recovery period:
- Skincare: Follow the post - treatment skincare instructions provided by your doctor. This may include using a gentle cleanser, applying a calming ointment or moisturizer, and avoiding harsh products or exfoliating for a few days.
- Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun by wearing a hat and using a high - SPF sunscreen. Sun exposure can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of hyperpigmentation.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: It is advisable to avoid heavy exercise and sweating for at least 24 - 48 hours after the procedure, as sweating can increase the risk of infection in the micro - wounds.
Results and Long - Term Maintenance
Most patients start to see noticeable results within a week of the microneedling procedure. The skin may appear brighter and more refreshed. However, the full benefits of microneedling become visible after the completion of the healing process, which usually occurs between four and six weeks. Over time, as the body continues to produce new collagen, patients may notice firmer, softer skin with improved tone and texture. Fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks may also be significantly reduced.
The results of microneedling typically last for several months. To maintain the results, it is important to follow a good skincare routine that includes using sunscreen daily, moisturizing, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Some patients may require periodic maintenance sessions, usually every few months, to keep their skin looking its best. Adding other non - surgical treatments like chemical peels, Botox, and fillers to microneedling can also extend the life of the results.
Conclusion
Microneedling is a highly effective and popular skin rejuvenation procedure in New York City. With its numerous benefits, including minimal downtime, natural - looking results, and suitability for all skin types, it has become a go - to treatment for many individuals looking to improve their skin's appearance. There are several top - notch plastic surgery hospitals in New York City that offer high - quality microneedling treatments, each with its own unique approach and expertise. By choosing a reputable hospital and following the proper pre - and post - treatment instructions, patients can achieve long - lasting, beautiful results.
If you are considering microneedling, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the recommended plastic surgery hospitals in New York City. Take the first step towards achieving the skin you've always wanted and discover the transformative power of microneedling.