Looking for a way to address your skin concerns and achieve an overall youthful glow? Microneedling at Athré Facial Plastics in Houston, TX, might be the perfect treatment for you. This minimally invasive collagen induction therapy stimulates your skin's healing process to fade fine lines, atrophic acne scars, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, uneven skin, and more.
Dr. Raghu Athré is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon who takes a personalized approach to every patient and procedure. Reveal your most supple, radiant skin, and enjoy a big boost in confidence with a microneedling treatment designed just for you!
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These tiny punctures stimulate the body's natural elastin and collagen production by increasing cellular turnover. The result is smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. The microneedling device allows Dr. Athré to make fine adjustments to the device's needle lengths, so that he can target specific concerns like acne scarring at a deeper level while also providing comprehensive skin rejuvenation.
Dr. Athré offers Houston microneedling patients the option of combining microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This combination cosmetic procedure combines the collagen-boosting effects of microneedling with the healing properties of PRP.
In this procedure, Dr. Athré collects a small blood sample and processes it to isolate the PRP, which is rich in growth factors. He then uses the microneedling device to create tiny holes in the skin. Lastly, your personalized PRP serum is applied to the microneedling treatment areas. The punctures created by the tiny needles help the PRP deeply penetrate the skin through the outermost layer, called the stratum corneum). Microneedling with PRP has synergistic benefits, offering ultimate skin rejuvenation.
As an additional step up in the collagen rebuilding process, Dr. Athré offers Houston microneedling patients the option of combining microneedling with adipose derived stem cells. This procedure is called a “Stem Cell Facial”. A small amount of fat is liposuctioned from the abdomen or flanks. This fat is purified in the same manner as is done with fat transfer. The last component of the purification process yields nanofat which is rich with your body’s own stem cells. These stem cells are microneedled into your skin to enhance skin texture, skin plumpness, and increase the collagen re-building process of your skin.
On the day of your microneedling treatment at Athré Facial Plastics, you'll start with a consultation to discuss your skin goals with Dr. Athré and have any questions answered. When you are ready to start the procedure, he will apply a topical numbing cream to ensure your comfort. He then uses the microneedling device, equipped with an arrangement of tiny needles, to create micro-punctures in the skin. These tiny, controlled injuries induce collagen production.
The process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment area. Afterward, your skin may appear slightly red, similar to a mild sunburn. You will be able to return to most activities right away. Dr. Athré may recommend scheduling multiple treatments to achieve the best results.
Microneedling therapy effectively treats a variety of skin conditions:
…and more!
Microneedling is highly versatile. The microneedling device can be used on various parts of the body:
Dr. Athré will assess potential treatment areas to determine if microneedling or another cosmetic procedure can offer the improvements you desire.
Microneedling offers numerous benefits:
Ideal candidates for microneedling are individuals with:
Microneedling distinguishes itself by being safe for most skin types, including patients with darker skin tones. People with active skin infections, severe acne, certain skin conditions, or a weakened immune system may do better with alternative treatments. Dr. Athré will learn about your medical history and assess your skin in potential treatment areas to determine if microneedling is right for you.
Microneedling patients are typically comfortable resuming light activities shortly after their session. However, you may want a few days of social downtime as post-procedure redness, light swelling, and skin irritation subside. Dr. Athré will provide aftercare instructions that emphasize avoiding direct sunlight, strenuous activities, and harsh skincare products until your skin has recovered from treatment.
Following Dr. Athré’s aftercare instructions ensures a safe treatment experience and optimal results. We are always available to answer any questions after your microneedling session.
Patients typically see initial improvements within a week, with continued progress over several months as collagen production increases. For best results, a series of 3-6 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart is recommended. The effects of microneedling can last for several months, with maintenance sessions enhancing the longevity of your results.
Professional microneedling treatments are delivered by the experienced hands of a skincare expert using medical-grade devices that penetrate deeper into the skin. DIY microneedling devices typically offer much shallower penetration and are not targeted to address specific skin concerns. For these reasons, professional microneedling delivers much more noticeable improvements. Professional microneedling treatments also ensure a sterile environment, reducing the risk of infection and complications.
Our professional-grade microneedling device is equipped with tiny needles that create microscopic punctures in the skin. Most patients find the microneedling treatment very tolerable. A topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure to minimize sensation.
Collagen is a protein that provides structure, strength, and elasticity to the skin, playing a crucial role in maintaining its firmness and smoothness. As we age, we naturally lose collagen. Collagen induction therapy, such as microneedling, stimulates the production of new collagen by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin. The formation of fresh collagen and elastin fibers helps damaged or aging skin look firmer, more even, and youthful looking.
Microneedling can be an excellent choice for people with darker skin tones. Unlike some laser treatments, microneedling doesn't target pigment, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation side effects. Dr. Athré is highly experienced in working with all skin types, including darker skin tones, and will tailor your procedure to provide excellent results with a very low risk of complications.
Yes, microneedling can be combined with treatments like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for enhanced results.
Downtime is minimal, with most patients resuming normal activities shortly after their microneedling session. It is important to follow Dr. Athré's aftercare instructions, which include protecting your skin from sun exposure and using gentle skincare products.
The recommended number of microneedling sessions will depend on your specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. Athré may recommend a series of 3-6 sessions to yield optimal results.
Microneedling is safe for most skin types, but a consultation with Dr. Athré is necessary to determine whether it is the best cosmetic procedure for you. We specialize in a range of minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatments, ensuring our patients receive care that matches their needs.
Common side effects include temporary redness and swelling, which usually subside within a few days.