LOS ANGELES A miniature roller equipped with dozens of microfine 30-gauge needles that repeatedly puncture the facial epidermis may be a good alternative to laser resurfacing or dermabrasion for some patients.
The Medical Roll-CIT induces collagen formation without destroying the epidermis, Philip Miller, M.D., said at the fall meeting of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. "It's straightforward, simple, and easy to do," said Dr. Miller, a plastic surgeon in New York City. "People are back in public in 25 daysand, most importantly, patients are highly satisfied with the results."
Patients prepare for the procedure with daily applications of concentrated vitamins A and C for about 3 weeks. Both the lotion and the roller are made by South Africa-based Environ Skin Care Ltd.
Before the procedure, a nerve block and topical anesthetic are given. The physician rolls the device over the areas to be treated multiple times, in a random pattern, creating hundreds to thousands of tiny puncture wounds. The wounds are about 1.5 mm deepjust deep enough to reach the papillary dermis, Dr. Miller said.
The procedure does cause bleeding; the skin should be covered with damp swabs for absorption. Bleeding stops quickly, and after it does, the vitamin lotion is applied again. Patients are instructed to apply the lotion for 3 weeks. "The needle wounds serve as channels to direct the nutrients to the dermis," Dr. Miller said.
There is no need for postoperative narcotic medication. After healing is complete, there is no photosensitivity, he said.
Dr. Miller has performed the procedure on 11 patients (6 for acne scars and 5 for mild rhytids). Nine patients (82%) said they experienced a 70%79% improvement from baseline, while two rated their improvement as 50%59%. There were no pigmentary changes on any treated skin, even Fitzpatrick types V and VI.
Dr. Miller said he has no financial interest in the device.
Micropunctures surround islands of uninvolved epidermis after the procedure. Courtesy Dr. Philip Miller