Transforming surgical scarring with radiofrequency microneedling
In this instalment of The Paragon Effect, we are going to look at two patients who disliked the appearance of the scars they were left with following surgery and an accident. Keep reading as we explain how Dr. Chloe transformed their scars using radiofrequency microneedling treatment.
Scarring can have a significant affect on a person’s mental wellbeing and confidence. In the world’s largest study on facial scarring and mental health in 2023, it was reported that people with facial scarring are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. Although in this case study we’re not focusing on facial scarring, we’re shedding a light on how scars on any part of the body can affect a person’s confidence too.
The treatment used in this case study, Radiofrequency microneedling, is a collagen-boosting treatment, combining two of the most effective skin rejuvenation treatments, radiofrequency and microneedling, during which tiny sterile needles create microscopic punctures in the skin to deliver radiofrequency energy to specific depths within the skin. This heats the tissues and in response more collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid is produced, working wonders to repair scarring. This treatment can be can be used on facial scars, surgical scars (including c-section scarring) and trauma scars.
Consultation
- Initial consultation to discuss concerns and discuss treatment outcomes
- Assessment determined up to 6 sessions of radiofrequency microneedling spaced 4 weeks apart
Presenting complaints
- Deep scarring causing aesthetic concern to patients
Scar assessment
- Non-keloid scarring
- Obvious scar tissue present with differences in both skin structure and texture
- Scar over 12 months old
Treatment process
- Full cleansing process
- Topical anaesthesia placement for 20 minutes
- Radiofequency microneedling on scarring area – 3 passes over the area
- Avoid active and strong skin products for 72 hours pre and post-treatment
- Avoid any product on the skin for 24 hours post-treatment as open microchannels are present for 24 hours
Treatment plan
- Initial consultation to discuss concerns and expectations
- First RF microneedling session with mild radiofrequency to ensure good skin reaction and healing
- Increased radiofrequency energy gradually throughout sessions
- Assess depth and improvement of scarring 30 days post third treatment and add additional sessions if required
- Up to 6 treatments and then 3 months break – assessment of area after this to determine if more treatments are needed
Patient one:
Before and after (taken after 3 treatments)
Patient one said:
“I had a very traumatic surgical experience which left me which a very prominent scar across my belly, and it has been there for over 30 years. I’ve always been so conscious of it on holiday and have wanted treatment for years but never had the confidence to get treatment and wasn’t sure what was available. Chloe was very honest and open about the results I could achieve and offered me RF microneedling to try to improve the look of the scar. I was happy to try anything and any little improvement would help. The treatment was comfortable and Chloe kept me calm and assured throughout. I’ve had 3 sessions now and I already love the results. I genuinely cannot believe the improvements so far, the scar is looking flatter and the appearance is starting to resemble healthier skin. I’m excited for the next sessions and if I continue to get improvements I will definitely be getting more treatment on the area.”
Patient two:
Before and after (taken after 3 treatments)
Patient two said:
“I have had this scar on my leg since I was about 10 years old. I slid on glass and have been left with this scar which has never improved. I didn’t expect the scar to be gone fully as I understood there would be limitations, but I wanted some improvement on the look of the scar as it was always very shiny in appearance and quite noticeable when wearing shorts. I honestly can’t believe how much of an improvement there has been after 3 sessions, I never thought I would actually have hair growing in that area again. It’s amazing, I am so happy with the results so far and can’t wait to get even more improvement over the next 3 sessions.”
*These photos were taken after 3 sessions in total. Most scarring will require minimum of 6 sessions, especially if scar is over 12 months old.