Microneedling
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Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that uses fine, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. It offers a nonsurgical way to stimulate the body’s natural collagen and elastin production, which are crucial for your skin’s tone and texture. At Dr. Avila’s practice in Miami, FL, we perform every microneedling treatment using the SkinPen device. As the first FDA-cleared microneedling system, the SkinPen is ideal for its precision and consistent depth control.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling involves using a handheld device with tiny needles to puncture the skin’s surface at a controlled depth. These punctures, or micro-channels, are very small, but they trigger the body’s natural wound- healing response. In the treated area, your skin will respond with new collagen and elastin production, which are two proteins responsible for youthful, resilient skin. Over time, this renewed production will improve the appearance and texture of your skin.
Benefits of Microneedling
- Improves fine lines and early signs of aging
- Reduces the appearance of acne scars and enlarged pores
- Evens out skin tone and texture
- Minimizes stretch marks
- Enhances absorption of topical serums
- Works on the face, neck, décolleté, and body
- Suitable for most skin types and tones
Enhancing Your Microneedling Results
Because the micro-channels created during treatment temporarily boost absorption, we often pair microneedling with targeted topicals. We offer two serum variations that can further support skin repair, elasticity, and hydration. During your consultation, your clinician can go over our available options to determine which will best suit the results you want to see.
What to Expect During a Microneedling Treatment
We begin by applying a numbing cream prior to treatment for comfort. Depending on the area treated, we generally wait at least 30 minutes to let it fully take effect. Using the SkinPen device, your clinician then passes the microneedling device over the treatment area in controlled passes. Every pass is measured and tracked to ensure even, consistent treatment across the entire target area.
Patients can expect about another 30–60 minutes for the treatment itself. Total time will depend on the area treated and whether a booster is incorporated.
Downtime & Recovery
While microneedling recovery is typically brief and mild, patients will still need to plan around it. The side effects can include redness and mild sensitivity similar to a sunburn, which last for about 24–48 hours. You can usually resume wearing makeup within a day or two once the redness has faded. After 3–5 days, some skin shedding and dryness are normal as surface skin cells turn over. After that, your skin should begin improving with continued remodeling for several months afterward.
Microneedling FAQs
Who is an ideal candidate for microneedling?
Microneedling is well suited for people across a range of ages who want to improve mild to moderate cosmetic concerns. Since it uses a physical modality instead of lasers, it is generally safe for all skin tones. Overall, patients should still be in good health with no active skin conditions in the treatment area. We therefore carefully consult with each patient to ensure microneedling is a safe and effective option for their skin health, goals, and preferences.
When will I see microneedling results?
Initial skin improvement is typically visible within days as swelling subsides. Results begin to be more noticeable once skin turnover begins and flaking is complete. The most important changes rely on the collagen remodeling aspect, which continues over the following weeks to months. Peak results are typically visible around 4–6 weeks after each session.
Is microneedling painful?
Topical numbing generally makes microneedling well tolerated for most patients. You may still notice some mild pressure or discomfort during treatment, but patients tend to report it as not being an issue. Treatments are also brief (30–60 minutes), which helps patients with sensitive skin to tolerate it well.
How many sessions will I need?
A series of 3–6 sessions is the standard for most patients. We space each treatment about 4–6 weeks apart to give your skin plenty of time to recover fully between each visit. Your regimen plan will depend on your individual concerns, with each patient receiving a tailored plan. With a full series of treatments completed, patients can see results that last 1–2 years, maintained with touch-up treatments.
What device do you use?
We use SkinPen, the first FDA-cleared microneedling device, known for its precision and safety profile.
Can microneedling be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Microneedling is often paired with booster serums or other in-office treatments like injectables to enhance your results.
Who should avoid microneedling?
Most patients can qualify for microneedling, but we may need to discuss alternatives for patients who:
- Are pregnant
- Have active acne breakouts
- Have certain skin infections
- Have a history of keloid scarring
Schedule Your Consultation
Patients who want to explore nonsurgical treatment options like microneedling can scheduling a consultation at Dr. Sarah Avila’s practice in Miami, FL. Meet with an experienced clinician, build your plan, and move toward seeing rejuvenated, renewed skin.
Sarah Avila, MD
Board Certification:
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
Specialization:
Eyelid Surgery & Aesthetics
Dr. Sarah Avila is a Double Board-Certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon in Miami, Florida. After completing medical school, Dr. Avila completed a residency in ophthalmology at the Mount Sinai Hospital, followed by a highly competitive two-year ASOPRS-accredited fellowship in reconstructive and cosmetic oculofacial surgery at Emory University.





