I have read reviews saying that patients experienced fat loss with microneedling. Is this a possibility?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that's used to treat skin concerns via collagen production. It is used to target acne scars, large pores, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture.  The common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately after the procedure.  More severe side would be bruising and peeling.  Fat loss will not occur from this treatment it is not a possible side effect. Fat loss in the face typically occurs from weight loss and aging.  Thank you for the question and I hope this helps.

I appreciate your concern. However, microneedling does not work beyond the dermal layers where the fat is located. This procedure is designed to create micro-channels in the skin that stimulate the body’s healing processes and boost collagen production. Hollowing in the temples and other areas of the face are usually due to the effects of aging. There are dermal fillers that can be used to restore volume to these areas. I would talk to your doctor about potential treatments for this area as well. 

I have personally been using medical microneedling--both manual dermal rollers and automatic stamping pens--for well over twenty years and have not encountered any cases of fat loss due to its use. On the other hand, relatively expensive bells and whistles radiofrequency devices and even more so, ultrasound devices have been associated with this complication. While microneedling is touted for treating all kinds of scars, it is best reserved for treating very superficial residual surface color and textural irregularities that may remain following other treatments for acne or other kinds of indented scars. It may also supplement the use of TCA CROSS for treating dilated pores and ice pick scars. Make sure that you are consulting with a board certified aesthetic physician and that you are being treated by microneedling for the appropriate problems. Best of luck. 

Hello there,
      Fat loss is not possible with micro needling. It does not affect the subcutaneous tissue in any way. Hope this helps.
Sarah RN BSN 

Hello, and thank you for sharing your question. There is no evidence to suggest that microneedling could cause fat loss. In fact, it is able to stimulate the skin’s production of collagen and elastin, two important proteins for plump, youthful-looking skin. How long has it been since your appointment? It is possible that you could be experiencing inflammation or swelling that could temporarily affect your appearance. If you still have concerns, contact your provider, or seek a second in-person opinion from a reputable, experienced provider.


Best of luck to you.

Microneedling works well on texture and improving superficial acne scars.  It does not go deep enough to cause fat loss and can’t possibly have that side effect.  Perhaps you had recent weight loss? Please consult an expert in these cosmetic procedures.   Best, Dr. Green

Fat loss is not a reported side effect of microneedling.  There have been many clinical studies done in regards to microneedling safety and efficacy.  It is considered a safe treatment with  minimal side effects.  It is shown to increase collagen and elastin in the skin as well as increase the thickness of the epidermis.  The changes you are seeing are likely due to aging.  Facial volume loss, including volume in the temples, is a normal part of aging.  I would recommend seeing an injector in your area to discuss replacing facial volume.  The temples are often an overlooked area for filler.  Restoring some of the volume in this area can really give the face a beautiful, youthful shape and would nicely compliment the microneedling treatments. -Becky Hamilton, APRN