What is the best way to improve skin quality?

Patients with skin quality concerns may consider other methods in conjunction with surgery to improve skin quality. Many different methods exist, including advanced skin care, chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser therapy, radio frequency skin tightening, autologous fat grafting and microneedling. While all treatments will have some effect on improving skin quality, they have different modalities and indications.

Microneedling and chemical peels have different mechanisms of action and act at different levels in the skin. Microneedling was originally used for post-acne scarring. It works by breaking down scar tissue with fine needles to stimulate healing and new collagen production at the level of the dermis (deeper), without disrupting the integrity of the superficial (epidermal) layer of skin. Microneedling is effective against deep and fine wrinkles, post-acne scarring and also has a tightening effect on the skin. It is extremely effective against the vertical lines above the red upper lip.

Chemical peels, on the other hand, act more superficially by chemically exfoliating the skin, removing the top layer of damaged skin cells to rejuvenate the skin. Chemical peels are effective against more superficial skin issues, like fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots and other discoloration from sun damage, and has some effect against acne scarring. It leaves the skin looking healthier and more refreshed.

The right choice for you depends on your skin quality concerns. If you have post-acne scarring, deeper wrinkles, or vertical lines upper lip lines, then microneedling is the right choice. If you have large pores, discoloration from sun damage, uneven skin texture, blackheads or skin congestion, then a chemical peel is probably the more appropriate choice.

“Nanofat” grafting is a unique technique of harvesting and processing fat in order to create a form of injectable fat that can be injected through fine needles into delicate areas of the face while simultaneously isolating stem cells and growth factors, called the “stromal vascular fraction” of fat. These stem cells and growth factors trigger cell growth and increase collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to thicker, healthier looking skin. The potential effects are long-lasting, with potential continued improvement over many years.

• Softening of wrinkles
• Reduction in pore size
• Improved skin pigmentation
• Improved skin texture, softness and thickness