I am prone to keloids - Can I still have RF Microneedling done to target acne scars on my face?

Question

I have a few keloid scarring on my back that I got after an acne treatment 10 years ago. Since then, I have had several tattoos on different areas of my body and did not get any keloids. I am considering RF microneedling with platelet rich plasma for acne scars on my face but I am not sure if it is safe.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

RF microneedling is used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines and pores.  The needles used in this treatment are tiny but there is a small risk of keloid formation.  It is always best to discuss your concerns with your provider who can advise what is best for you after an evaluation.

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.A history of keloid scarring is considered a contraindication for most, if not all, RF microneedling devices. However, it could not cause an issue. I would recommend that you consult with a very experienced practitioner to discuss your history more fully prior to having any kind of RF microneedling treatment on your face. Best of luck

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Acne scars are usually characterized within the subtypes of atrophic, hypertrophic, pigmented, or inflammatory. These subtypes of acne scars can be visually discerning in ambient light and can cause significant cosmetic concerns. Indented and atrophic scars require a combination approach to stimulate collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing contour and uneven skin. These are usually combined with lasers and depigmentation protocols to reduce inflammatory hyperpigmentation (Melarase AM and Melarase PM). Our Hidef protocols for acne scars include fillers such as Sculptra, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane to improve deep acne scars; Vascular lasers to reduce inflammation and post-inflammatory redness and erythema; Fractional lasers to smooth contour and collagen; and Fractional RF to stimulate production of collagen within atrophic scars. Textural improvement and superficial scarring can be improved with Cosmelan peels, TCA Cross for ice-pick scars, deep chemical peels, and fractional CO2. We offer a personalized approach to your combination of scars and a formal evaluation with consultation is recommended to help you achieve your final results. Our plastic surgery office offers subcision and combination TCA Cross to help reduce deeply pitted scars. In terms of pigmentation and skin resonance, we recommend daily use of Melarase AM and Melarase PM coupled with Retinoid creams to achieve brilliant skin.

Best, 
Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

"​Acne scars need a combination approach for long-term improvement. Everyone has a unique pattern of acne scarring, and most people have various types of scars, so we create a tailored treatment plan for each patient. We often use:
- Injectable fillers like Bellafill and Sculptra (with or without subcision) for atrophic, indented scars. 
- Subcision for depressed, tethered scars. 
- Vascular lasers like Yellow laser, Aerolase, excel V, BBL, or IPL for redness or thick acne scars. 
- Lasers such as Fraxel, Erbium, CO2, Halo or fractional radiofrequency (Venus Viva, Skinfinity, Morpheus, PiXel8, Fractora, Intensif microneedling RF) for textural issues and superficial scarring. 
- TCA CROSS and punch excision for deep ice pick scars and narrow box car scars.

All lasers are combined with microneedling/PRP to improve the results and accelerate your healing time. Keep in mind that a personalized combination treatment by an expert physician will give you the improvement you're looking for. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist and acne scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer. ​"

Loliya Idoniboye, DO · Answer

Great question! it's important to note that individuals with a predisposition to keloid formation may be at a higher risk. Microneedling involves creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production and skin rejuvenation. While the treatment can help improve the appearance of scars, including keloids, it should be performed cautiously in individuals prone to keloid formation. It's crucial to consult with a dermatologist who can assess your skin type, medical history, and potential risk factors before undergoing microneedling or any other cosmetic procedure. They can provide personalized advice and determine the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation.

I am prone to keloids - Can I still have RF Microneedling done to target acne scars on my face?

Answers (5)

Answer: Acne Scarring -- Needs Combination of Subcision; Fillers Like Bellafill; Lasers Like Fraxel/Erbium/CO2; TCA Cross; Fractora RF

Answer: Acne Scarring -- Needs Combination of Subcision; Fillers Like Bellafill; Lasers Like Fraxel/Erbium/CO2; TCA Cross; Fractora RF

Answer: Microneedling for Keloid Prone Skin

Answer: Microneedling for Keloid Prone Skin

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I am prone to keloids - Can I still have RF Microneedling done to target acne scars on my face?

Answers (5)

Answer: Acne Scarring -- Needs Combination of Subcision; Fillers Like Bellafill; Lasers Like Fraxel/Erbium/CO2; TCA Cross; Fractora RF

Answer: Acne Scarring -- Needs Combination of Subcision; Fillers Like Bellafill; Lasers Like Fraxel/Erbium/CO2; TCA Cross; Fractora RF

Answer: Microneedling for Keloid Prone Skin

Answer: Microneedling for Keloid Prone Skin

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling RF

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.