Comparing Microneedling and Dermabrasion for Early Treatment of Surgical Facial Scars

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating two common treatments, microneedling and dermabrasion, to determine which is better at improving the appearance of new surgical scars on the face. This study focuses on adult patients with vertical forehead scars and aims to compare these techniques in the early postoperative period to see which provides better scar appearance. The trial is a prospective, randomized study conducted by Wake Forest University Health Sciences. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either microneedling or dermabrasion. Microneedling involves collagen induction therapy and may be combined with platelet-rich plasma or hyaluronic acid. Patients receiving microneedling will have two treatments the first between 6 to 8 weeks after facial surgery, and the second between 12 to 16 weeks after surgery. Those receiving dermabrasion will get the standard care treatment once, between 6 to 10 weeks after surgery. Throughout the study, participants will be assessed at 7 months for changes in scar appearance using the Vancouver Scar Scale, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Patient-reported benefits, including pain during procedure and satisfaction at 6 months, will also be recorded. The total participation time includes treatment and follow-up assessments to monitor scar improvement and treatment effects.

Microneedling vs Dermabrasion for Early Facial Scar Resurfacing