Embark On Your Skin Resurfacing Journey

Whether you’ve developed acne, wrinkles, pigmentation, sun spots, or other skin blemishes from natural aging, stress, or long-term exposure to UV, microneedling and laser resurfacing are two excellent treatments to address these concerns. At William Lao, MD in New York, Dr. William Lao has helped thousands of patients determine which skin resurfacing treatment is best for them, allowing them to achieve the rejuvenated skin appearance they desire while selecting the procedure that makes them feel most comfortable. This guide will break down key similarities and differences between microneedling and laser resurfacing so you can feel confident and informed in your decision.

Gentler Treatment With Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses tiny, ultra-fine needles to create micro-injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries trigger your body into recovery mode, where it begins stimulating collagen and elastin production to heal the injured areas. As your body heals, it rebuilds the targeted area with smoother, firmer, and more evenly toned skin for a more youthful appearance. Microneedling is very versatile and can treat a wide variety of skin concerns. For example, microneedling is commonly used to address fine lines and wrinkles on the face, acne scars, enlarged pores, and stretch marks on the body. Patients typically begin to notice more radiant, glowing skin within a few days of treatment, with optimal results appearing after 3 to 6 weeks.  Additionally, microneedling is safe and effective for all skin types, making it widely accessible to more candidates. These candidates are also typically individuals with more sensitive skin, seeking gradual, subtle improvements and wanting to address mild concerns or early signs of aging.

Heat Things Up With Precise Laser Resurfacing

Unlike microneedling, laser resurfacing uses heat and light to target specific areas of the skin and restore the smooth, youthful contours and texture. Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing can be either ablative, which is stronger and more aggressive, or non-ablative, which is less intense and aggressive. Ablative lasers, such as the fractional CO2 laser that Dr. Lao uses, are designed to remove targeted outer layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production to rejuvenate the skin. They’re useful for targeting things like deeper wrinkles and scars, and the results are immediately noticeable after treatment. The targeted areas will continue to recover over the following few weeks to a month, where you can enjoy your refreshed, glowing skin.

Breaking Down the Difference

Overall, microneedling is better if you don’t have much downtime to spare but still want to stimulate collagen and achieve smoother, more subtle results. Laser resurfacing is typically better if you have more significant skin blemishes, such as sun damage, wrinkles, or pigmentation. Each patient has unique concerns and goals, so scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lao is the best way to determine which treatment will benefit you most.

Use Your Goals to Guide You

At the end of the day, your safety and personal aesthetic goals matter most. We encourage our patients to be completely honest about their goals and expectations so that Dr. Lao can ensure the treatment he provides is safe and effective. During your consultation, Dr. Lao will perform a thorough examination of the areas you want to be treated. Based on his analysis in conjunction with your goals and medical history, he’ll let you know how each procedure will benefit your unique goals and skin quality. 

Why Choose Dr. Lao?

Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery New York (CAPSNY), was founded by Dr. William Lao, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon with a comprehensive understanding of the aesthetic ideals of patients around the world. He spent over 10 years training in advanced surgical, non-invasive, and minimally invasive procedures like microneedling and laser resurfacing. His steady hand and meticulous approach to targeting specific areas with expert precision have left thousands of patients with rejuvenated, more youthful-looking results. Dr. Lao takes education, skill, and safety very seriously, and he’s been recognized by several prestigious organizations for his dedication to the craft, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).

Schedule Your Consultation

Your microneedling or laser resurfacing session will begin with a consultation at our New York office. Contact us to get started, and we’ll find a time that works for you. We look forward to helping you achieve the smoother skin you’ve been looking for, so you can live with more confidence and vitality.