
As we grow older, our bodies begin to show signs of aging. Many of these signs are most prominent on the face and include wrinkles, creases, and lines. Microneedling is a process that taps into the body’s innate healing capabilities, reversing signs of aging and providing a clearer, more youthful countenance.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, we are happy to provide patients with access to safe and effective anti-aging treatments, including microneedling, as part of a comprehensive, individualized plan.


Microneedling is a procedure that uses a specialized device containing multiple fine, sterile needles. These needles are precisely adjusted to create microscopic channels in the outermost layers of the skin. These controlled micro-injuries trigger the body's natural wound-healing process, leading to rapid renewal of collagen and elastin fibers, thickening the dermal layer and resulting in smoother texture, firmer skin, and reduced visibility of scars and wrinkles.
During a typical microneedling session, your provider will use needles, often positioned on a roller, to prick the skin and create micro-injuries. These tiny injuries signal to the body that new collagen is needed, prompting a natural rejuvenation effect. Microneedling is a safe and effective way to revitalize the skin and reverse signs of aging.
If you have never had microneedling performed, you may have some questions about the procedure. Here’s what you can expect when seeking treatment at the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery.
Before your treatment begins, we will carefully cleanse your skin, then apply a topical numbing agent. This ensures that you do not feel any pain or discomfort, even as the microneedling experience creates tiny injuries.
Microneedling is performed with an FDA-approved roller or device. In total, the microneedling experience should last no more than 30 minutes.
Once the treatment is complete, your provider may apply a balm to help ensure your comfort, soothing your skin even as the tiny injuries begin to heal. You will also be able to apply makeup to conceal the immediate after-effects of the microneedling, which can include some mild to moderate redness.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, our dermatology physician assistants, Colleen Van Egeren, PA-C and Megan MacCarthy, PA-C, have 34 years of combined experience treating various skin conditions. As dermatology specialists, they would love to talk with you about your needs and recommend a skincare treatment program just for you.
Because it stimulates collagen production, restoring your skin tissue, microneedling can be an effective way to treat a variety of conditions, including:

We believe that true beauty comes from within, and we’re here to help you reveal the most vibrant version of yourself.

The most common treatment area is the face. However, microneedling is safely and effectively used to treat scars, stretch marks, and textural issues on the neck, chest, and various areas of the body.

Microneedling is a popular anti-aging treatment, offering several unique benefits, including:

You are an excellent candidate if you have concerns regarding mild scarring, fine lines, or rough texture. Our providers will review your complete skin history to tailor a safe and effective treatment plan.
While microneedling is an excellent option for some patients, it is not for everyone. We do not recommend this procedure to patients who have active acne outbreaks or other ongoing skin diseases. We would also recommend abstaining from this treatment if you are pregnant or typically have poor wound healing.
Recovery from microneedling is usually very straightforward. Most patients feel ready to return to work or resume their normal activities the day after treatment. We recommend that patients avoid strenuous exercise or anything that may cause profuse sweating for around 72 hours.
You may experience some redness and mild swelling, symptoms that will subside within a few days. While you can conceal these effects with makeup, avoid using any facial products that may be abrasive or irritating to the skin.

Patients in Appleton and Green Bay choose Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery because of the skill, experience, and personal attention that our team provides. Learn what other people in our community have to say about our doctors and their treatment.
While patients often report an immediate "glow" from the light inflammation, true visible results, such as softer lines and improved texture, emerge progressively.
This is because collagen production takes time, with noticeable improvement starting around two to three weeks and continuing for up to six months. We recommend a series of 3 to 6 sessions to achieve the most transformative and sustained results.


The success of a microneedling treatment relies on the device's quality and the provider's precision in controlling the depth and speed of the needles. Our practice features professional-grade devices and skilled providers who are experts in skin physiology. We integrate this effective treatment into a sophisticated, personalized plan, ensuring the settings are precisely calibrated to your needs and yield the most elegant and natural-looking textural improvements.
Microneedling can be an excellent anti-aging option that allows you to enjoy a rejuvenated appearance without the need for surgical intervention. To learn more about microneedling options in Appleton or Green Bay, contact our practice to schedule a consultation at (920) 380-9890.

No. While the concept involves needles, a topical numbing cream is applied beforehand, which makes the procedure very comfortable. Most patients feel only a light pressure or vibration during the treatment.
Microneedling is highly effective for improving fine lines and mild wrinkles. For deeper wrinkles, our providers may recommend combining microneedling with other treatments, such as injectables or RF microneedling (like Morpheus8), for a more comprehensive result.
For optimal collagen building and scar reduction, we typically recommend a series of treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. Once the initial series is complete, maintenance treatments can be performed every six to twelve months.
Yes, microneedling is generally safe for all skin tones, as it does not involve heat and light energy like some lasers, minimizing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening). Our providers expertly tailor the needle depth for every skin type.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, you can enjoy a range of cosmetic procedures and dedicated care in our offices in Appleton and Green Bay. As a double-board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sauerhammer specializes in rejuvenating surgical solutions, including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and facelifts, designed to help you look and feel your best. We seamlessly integrate all our plastic surgery services with skilled dermatology care and aesthetic specialists: Megan MacCarthy, PA-C, Colleen Van Egeren, PA-C, and Amanda Olsen, PA-C. They prioritize your goals through comprehensive evaluations and advanced techniques to help you achieve optimal and long-lasting results.