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With so many skin rejuvenation options, the demands for non-surgical treatments, natural-looking results, and less downtime are increasing.
Dr. Somenek is one of the top facial plastic surgeons in Washington DC offering the combination of two new innovations, using Collagen P.I.N. (Percutaneous induction needling) of the skin with growth factor enriched Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP).
Also referred to as collagen induction therapy, this procedure begins with the PRP and growth factors being obtained from a blood sample drawn from your body. During the microneedling treatment, the Collagen P.I.N. needles penetrate below the skin surface, creating invisible microchannels. This process stimulates the production of new collagen in the skin, generating a fresh skin surface over time.
Unlike older generations of microneedling rollers, the Collagen P.I.N. uses a unique spring loaded, stamping technology where the skin is rapidly treated at ninety degrees at a physician designated controlled depth. During this procedure, tiny needles are used to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin in order to produce collagen and elastin. The benefits of micro-needling are a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, younger-looking skin with fewer signs of aging. Microneedling also has a positive effect on hyper-pigmentation as well as on hypo-pigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks and generally creates a fresher appearance or glow to the skin. It does this without the heat trauma of lasers or other devices. Repeat treatments with the microneedling is extremely effective for acne scars, especially when combined with platelet rich plasma (PRP) application.
Patients report less pain and shorter recovery periods and greater efficacy as a result. Dr. Somenek recommends a series of treatments depending on the area treated with the recovery time being approximately 2 days of redness. Local Microneedling with PRP can be performed on all skin types, including patients with darker skin that are not candidates for laser therapy, such as those of African American, Asian, and Latino descent for example.
Platelets are the cells in the blood that help tissue to heal and grow new cells, and many growth factors are present in PRP. The PRP promotes your own collagen to grow, regenerates tissue, and thus acts to naturally smooth and tighten the skin. In this way, PRP softens wrinkles and creates smoother skin texture and tone. PRP is applied both during and after the microneedling treatment. It is applied both topically and injected under the skin using Dr. Somenek’s microcannula technique. This way, the stem cells and growth factors nourish the superficial and deeper layers of the skin, enhancing the overall result.
Microneedling is proven to be safe for most patients and skin types, with the most common side effect being a flushed or red appearance akin to a sunburn. As PRP is created from the patient’s own body, it is easily recognized and processed without major complications.
Typically a series of 3-6 microneedling treatments is recommended, depending upon your area of correction or concern. Your skincare professional will ultimately determine a treatment schedule based on your individual goals and desires. Treatments are usually spaced in 4-6 week intervals. Patients with deep wrinkles, advanced sun damage, stretch marks, or any type of scars, usually require 6 or more treatments to achieve the desired results.
Most patients see results after the first microneedling treatment. Individual results vary depending on individual skin health. This depends on how well you take care of your skin, along with genetic and environmental factors. It is most common to begin to see true changes or positive results as soon as 1-2 weeks after the first treatment. Many patients comment on positive changes and how their skin is glowing after their skin heals.
Microneedling is considered a very minimal downtime treatment. Immediately after your treatment your skin will look slightly pink to moderately red. Your medical provider will recommend skin care products for your post care based on your individual skin, which will greatly minimize these symptoms and enhance your overall results. You may experience some flakiness for a couple days after your treatment but can wear makeup after 36 hours which makes it an ideal weekend recovery treatment!
If you have further questions regarding microneedling, please call or contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Somenek. A microneedling procedure in Washington DC may be just what you are looking for.
Dr. Troy Pittman is an internationally recognized expert in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast and body. Dr. Pittman is Board-Certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and practices the full spectrum of Plastic Surgery procedures. He has specific interest and expertise in aesthetic surgery of the breast, including complex revision breast surgery.
Michael Somenek, M.D., is a facial plastic surgeon in Washington, D.C. whose practice offers specialized cosmetic and reconstructive services. In addition to his high levels of experience and talent, Dr. Somenek is also a compassionate and warm surgeon who finds personal fulfillment in helping patients rejuvenate their appearances and their confidence. Request a consultation online to meet personally with Dr. Somenek, or call our office to schedule a consultation.