The short answer: microneedling can make a real difference in how a surgical scar looks and feels.
Scar work is very rewarding. I’ve seen results that changed how clients feel about their bodies, and I really enjoy being part of that.
Many of the clients I treat for surgical scars are really happy with their results. A C-section, a breast surgery, a procedure that gave them something they wanted. They just want the scar to soften and blend in.
What is a scar?
A scar is how your skin heals itself. After surgery, your body lays down new collagen quickly to close things up, but it builds that collagen in a denser, less organized pattern than the skin around it. That's why a scar can look and feel different.
What does microneedling do for a scar?
Microneedling uses very fine needles to gently prompt your skin's natural repair response. Your body answers by building new collagen and reorganizing the tissue in and around the scar. Over a series of treatments, raised or uneven scars flatten and soften, and the texture starts to match the skin around it.
The goal is a scar you notice a lot less.
Which scars can it help?
I often work with breast surgery scars, including reductions, augmentations, mastectomies, reconstruction and top surgery. I also treat C-section scars and scars from other procedures. Microneedling is also one of my go-to treatments for acne scars.
When should I come in?
Start with a consultation, whether your surgery is coming up, recently done or years behind you. We'll look at where you are and plan the right timing together.
How many treatments will I need?
Most scars need a series of 3 to 8 treatments. Older, deeper or wider scars usually need more. I'll give you a realistic number once I see your scar.
What's the downtime?
Expect some redness and dryness for a few days. I'll walk you through after-care so your skin heals well between sessions.
Who shouldn't get it?
Microneedling isn't for you if you're pregnant or if you tend to form keloids. We’ll go over your health history at your consultation.
What do I tell my clients?
Be patient with your skin. Collagen keeps building for weeks after each session, so the biggest changes show up gradually, not overnight. Protect the area from the sun, since new scar tissue darkens easily. And notice how the scar feels, not just how it looks. Softer and smoother is often the first change people tell me about.
What if I've had breast reconstruction?
Many of my breast surgery clients like to finish their results with a few final touches. Microneedling refines the scar. For the nipple and areola, I refer clients to Eric Eye of Restorative Tattoo Arts, who creates realistic 3D nipple and areola tattoos after mastectomy and reconstruction. Eric also works out of the Fine Line studio, and you can learn more and book with him through his website.
Why see me for scar work?
I've been a master esthetician for over 20 years. That includes more than a decade in dermatology, plus plastic surgery experience. Every treatment plan is built around your skin and your timeline, and I'm with you from the first visit to the last.
Want to talk about your scar?
Book a consultation and we'll look at it together. You can also read more about microneedling at Fine Line.
Warmly,
Amy
Amy Morgan is a Master Esthetician at Fine Line in Seattle.