Clinical Trial
In late 2022, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons published a clinical trial examining the effects of Micro-Needling on post-surgical scars (Claytor et al., 2022). This study found that “Micro-Needling significantly improved the appearance of post-surgical scars, including acne scarring”.
Derma-Pen 4™
At Bella Plastic Surgery, we use the Derma-Pen 4™, an advanced, digital Micro-Needling device designed for rapid, comfortable and precise skin rejuvenation. Micro-Needling is often used to support skin texture and tone, pore appearance and scarring (including acne scarring).
Post-surgical scars require deeper needle penetration of up to 3 millimetres. Therefore, the procedure must be performed by an appropriately trained doctor or registered nurse.
When treating scars, the surgical site must be fully healed and clinically appropriate to treat. The needle penetration depths are adjusted to work through the base and margins of the scar tissue to support scar appearance and texture. The approach, needle depth and session frequency vary based on the type of scar, its location and the individual’s healing response.
How many treatments are required?
For optimal results, we recommend three Micro-Needling treatments over a three to four-month period. However, individual healing responses vary.
Your Initial Consultation
All patients interested in Micro-Needling for post-surgical scars must first have a face-to-face consultation with one of our cosmetic nurses. During this time, they will thoroughly assess your scars, review your medical history and discuss your suitability for treatment. Your nurse will also explain the procedure, after-care instructions, all risks and complications and the costs.
How long is an appointment?
A Micro-Needling appointment takes approximately one and a half hours. This allows time to complete a patient registration form, allow the topical anaesthetic to take effect, discuss the procedure and post-treatment care instructions and then proceed with the Micro-Needling procedure.
Some individuals may decide to have the consultation and procedure on separate days; this will be discussed during your initial consultation.
Treatment Comfort
Most people tolerate Micro-Needling well. However, to minimise discomfort, we apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area approximately 30 to 60 minutes before commencing treatment.
After-Care
You will be given verbal and written after-care instructions after your treatment.
Following your treatment, it is usual for the treated areas to be sore, red and swollen. Within 48 to 72 hours, the redness will begin to fade. During this time, the skin may ooze and some skin crusting may occur as the treated area sheds dead skin. This is a normal part of the healing process. It may take up to one week for the bulk of the redness to settle.
Risks & Complications
All non-surgical procedures, including Micro-Needling, carry risks. Although the risks associated with skin needling are extremely uncommon, they include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Skin crusting or blistering
- Granuloma formation
- Lightening or darkening of the skin in the treated areas
