Introducing PRP Microneedling
Microneedling is a technique wherein tiny needles–less than 2 millimeters in length–are stamped or rolled over the skin to create micropunctures in the superficial skin layers. Microneedling has a long history of success in the treatment of facial scarring from acne and other wounds, but the mechanism behind its benefits appears to extend beyond the mechanical disruption of scar tissue.
Research at the microscopic level indicates that the breach in the skin barrier starts a healing cascade, which promotes the release of growth factors and subsequent production and restoration of healthy collagen and elastin in the skin, reversing some of the signs of skin aging. Studies show promising results for patients who desire facial rejuvenation or those who are troubled by skin texture, pigment, fine lines, or discoloration.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is also used for its restorative and healing properties. In this technique, blood is collected from the patient, separated in a centrifuge, and then the plasma and accumulated platelets are harvested. The plasma contains healing proteins and the platelets release growth factors, promoting production of hyaluronic acid and rapid healing.
The techniques are combined by introducing the PRP into the small channels created by microneedling. The synergy between the two utilizes the blood’s natural healing properties to amplify and accelerate the production of new skin.

What to Expect For Your Procedure
Before your procedure, a numbing anesthetic will be spread over the treatment area, so discomfort is minimal. Patients can expect mild redness with minimal downtime afterwards. This technique is generally well tolerated with very few side effects, which will be further discussed in consultation.
The procedure can be performed any time of the year without concerns regarding sun exposure. I always recommend a high SPF mineral sunblock with zinc and/or titanium dioxide, and this is especially important for post-procedure care of your skin.
Benefits of Boosting Collagen Production
After the procedure, patients can expect a prompt, noticeable improvement in the suppleness and glow of the skin (hence it being one of my favorite treatments). Treated skin looks revitalized and plump. As the skin heals and the underlying structures remodel, patients experience long term improvement in skin texture, pigment, melasma, acne scarring, enlarged pores, and fine lines.
June Special at OA Facial Plastics
It’s a great time to try out this rejuvenating treatment. OA Facial Plastics is running a special in the month of June 2021 for a series of 3 treatments for $1,250 (usually $550 per treatment) for the face and neck. I recommend a course of treatments performed at 6-week intervals.
Patients report a high level of satisfaction after the procedure, and here at OAFP we have seen our best results to date after a treatment performed by our licensed estheticians, Casey and Kyle.
I am very excited about our ability to offer this procedure in conjunction with our other treatments including NdYag dermal remodeling, with Laser Genesis, and infrared dermal remodeling with the Titan. These modalities pair well together because these non-ablative treatments are also a good choice for summer when the skin is more frequently exposed to the sun (as opposed to resurfacing or ablative procedures where sun avoidance is key).
If you’d like to learn more about our patient-centered approach to skin rejuvenation at OA Facial Plastics, click to book your consultation or call today: 317-708-6984.
FURTHER READING:
Hausauer AK, Humphrey S. The Physician’s Guide to Platelet-Rich Plasma in Dermatologic Surgery Part II: Clinical Evidence. Dermatol Surg. 2020;46(4):447-456. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000002148
Hou A, Cohen B, Haimovic A, Elbuluk N. Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review. Dermatol Surg. 2017;43(3):321-339. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000000924
Asif M, Kanodia S, Singh K. Combined autologous platelet-rich plasma with microneedling verses microneedling with distilled water in the treatment of atrophic acne scars: a concurrent split-face study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2016;15(4):434-443. doi:10.1111/jocd.12207
Wang JV, Schoenberg E, Saedi N, Ibrahim O. Platelet-rich Plasma, Collagen Peptides, and Stem Cells for Cutaneous Rejuvenation. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020;13(1):44-49.
Merati M, Woods C, Reznik N, Parker L. An Assessment of Microneedling with Topical Growth Factors for Facial Skin Rejuvenation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020;13(11):22-27.
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