Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery logo, representing a trusted leader in aesthetic treatments and plastic surgery services in Temecula, Riverside, and Redlands, CA.

Microneedling

Microneedling for smoother, firmer, more toned skin

What is “microneedling”?

Just as the name suggests, microneedling involves putting very tiny “microneedles” into the skin. The needles are very short (around 0.5 to 2.5 millimeters in length) so they only penetrate the upper levels of the skin and avoid damaging deeper structures. The goal of these microneedles is to create tiny micro-stimuli to the skin, driving it to make more collagen.  

As we get older, it’s the loss of collagen and other skin structures that leads to the wrinkles, lines and creases on the face. And it’s not only seniors that experience this. Many women start to notice fine lines and their skin losing its elasticity in their early 30’s. Boosting collagen is the key to holding back this inevitable process. 

What are the benefits of microneedling?

The benefits of microneedling are:

  • Stimulate collagen to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and creases on the face
  • Research has shown that microneedling can give you a 400% increase in collagen and elastin after 6 months
  • Improve acne scarring
  • In-office procedure without surgery or downtime
  • Good for most complexions (unlike lasers which often are not advised for darker skin tones)
  • Can be combined with other procedures such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to give collagen an even greater boost
  • Can be used to stimulate new hair growth in some people 

How much does a microneedling procedure cost?

The cost of microneedling will depend on the extent of the areas desired and how many treatments are needed. The best results are seen when you get a series of several treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart. 

Most people also choose to add PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to the microneedling to maximize its benefit. During your skin consultation at our office, we will go over the options and come up with a plan that suits your goals and budget.  

How is a microneedling procedure done?

Your microneedling session will be performed in a soothing, nurturing environment by our well-trained nurse. We take care to make sure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. 

Numbing cream will be applied to the surface that is to be treated (most commonly, the face, neck and decollete). After the numbing has taken effect, your nurse will cleanse and prep your skin. 

The microneedling device will be gently rolled onto the treatment areas. The depth of the treatment will depend on your skin type, the area being treated and how many treatments you have already received. The goal is to achieve a nice, even pinkness over the skin’s surface.

What is the recovery process for a microneedling prcedure?

Your skin will be pink or red that night and the following day. The pinkness is mild and can easily be covered up with concealer. There may also be mild swelling. This diminishes quickly and is usually nearly completely gone by 2-3 days after the procedure. 

We will provide you with a soothing hydrogel to use at home. This will increase your comfort and give you added hydration. 

What are the common risks & complications?

Pinkness and swelling

This is expected and is temporary. Most of the time, this goes away by itself within a day or two.

Broken capillaries or bruising

Although rare because the needles are so short and fine, it is possible to have broken capillaries or bruising. This should also be temporary.

Lack of desired effect

Although microneedling is an effective treatment for the surface of the skin, it does not replace surgery. Some people need the excision of skin that only surgery can provide. Before scheduling a microneedling session, it is important to discuss with your practitioner what your realistic expectations should be.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How long will my microneedling session take?
A: About 30 minutes. 

Q: How long will the results of microneedling last?
A: Research has shown that a series of microneedling sessions can give up to a 400% boost in collagen and elastin 6 months later. It is possible that the results could last even beyond that point but remember that your skin is also continuing to age during that time. Maintenance of regularly scheduled skin enhancers such as microneedling is crucial. Think of it as the “minor tune ups” that your skin, just like your car, needs.

Q: Is microneedling painful?
A: We use an effective topical numbing cream to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. You will feel a slight vibration. Certain areas may be more sensitive than others. We can also decrease the depth of the needles to increase your comfort. It is important to always communicate with your nurse on how you are feeling and whether we need to adjust anything in order to improve your experience. We’ve found that most people say the overall experience was good and they would have no problems doing it again.

Q: Will I be able to go to work right after the procedure?
A: Because you may be a little pinker than you are ok with at work, we recommend that you schedule your microneedling session at the end of your work day, if possible. Everyone’s skin responds a little differently so it’s hard to predict. 

Q: Is there any risk of cross-contamination from other people?
A: This is an important question. This is one reason why all microneedling centers are not the same and also why some places seem to charge less than others. You need to ask which microneedling technique is used. We use the SkinPen, which is the first Class II, FDA cleared microneedling device. This device is designed with disposable parts so that any part that comes in contact with your skin is for one use and one patient only. Although more expensive, this process ensures that there will be no risk of cross-contamination.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Our microneedling nurse would love to meet and go over everything you need to know about microneedling with you. Just give us a call at 951-699-9201 or use the link below. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Our doctors.

From medical school to plastic surgery residency, they have trained rigorously to be the best in the field. Their surgical experience and artistic expressions have provided extensive leadership in plastic surgery in Temecula, Murrieta, Riverside, Redlands, Loma Linda, and beyond.
Professional headshot of Esther Yoonah Kim, MD, plastic surgeon at Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA.

Yoonah Kim, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

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Andy Wongworawat, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Professional headshot of Zachary Filip, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA.

Zachary Filip, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Professional headshot of Grace Yu, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA.

Grace Yu, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Professional headshot of Duncan Miles, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon at Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Redlands, CA.

Duncan Miles, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Professional headshot of Waseem Mohiuddin, MD, Board-Eligible Plastic Surgeon at Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Riverside, CA.

Waseem Mohiuddin, MD

Board Eligible Plastic Surgeon

Robert Hardesty, MD

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Our locations.

We have three world-class plastic surgery centers.

Temecula / Murrieta

Modern lobby of the Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA, featuring couches, blue and grey tones, modern wall lighting, and a reception desk with the logo on a white marble wall.

27345 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 100
Temecula, CA 92590
(951) 699-9201

Redlands

Modern lobby of the Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Redlands, CA, featuring blue and grey tones for a sleek and welcoming atmosphere.

555 Cajon Street, Suite B
Redlands, CA 92376
(909) 509-5900

Riverside

Modern lobby of the Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery in Riverside, CA, with blue and grey tones, faux plants, and elegant gold wall designs.

7065 Indiana Avenue, Suite 200
Riverside, CA 92506
(951) 777-2682

Glow brighter, feel younger, look amazing. With the help of microneedling, we can get you there.
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From an independent survey on overall experience with the practice.

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We have several financing options to help.

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Locations

Located in California, the Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery proudly serves patients across Temecula, Murrieta, Riverside, and Redlands with state-of-the-art facilities and personalized treatments.

Temecula

27345 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 100
Temecula, CA 92590
(951) 699-9201

Redlands

555 Cajon Street, Suite B
Redlands, CA 92373
(909) 509-5900

Riverside

7065 Indiana Avenue, Suite 200
Riverside, CA 92506
(951) 777-2682

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Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery, Inc.

* Dr. Mohiuddin is board eligible with the American Board of Plastic Surgery.