Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion and dermaplaning help to “refinish” the skin’s top layers through a method of controlled surgical scraping. The treatments soften the sharp edges of surface irregularities, giving the skin a smoother appearance.

Dermabrasion is most often used to improve the look of facial skin left scarred by accidents or previous surgery, or to smooth out fine facial wrinkles, such as those around the mouth. It’s also sometimes used to remove the pre-cancerous growths called keratoses. Dermaplaning is commonly used to treat deep acne scars.

Both dermabrasion and dermaplaning can be performed on small areas of skin or on the entire face. They can be used alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as facelift, scar removal or revision, or chemical peel.

If you’re planning “surface repairs” on your face, you may also be considering chemical peel, an alternative method of removing the top layer of skin. However, dermabrasion and dermaplaning use instruments to remove the affected skin layers, while chemical peel uses a solution.

One or the other of these procedures, or a combination of both, may suit the individual patient as a solution to the problem. In general, chemical peel is typically used to treat fine wrinkles, while dermabrasion and dermaplaning are used for deeper imperfections such as acne scars. A non-chemical approach may be preferred for individuals with slightly darker skin.

Men and women of all ages, from young people to older adults, can benefit from dermabrasion and dermaplaning. You may also be given special instructions regarding the care and treatment of your skin prior to surgery. It’s usually done on an outpatient basis for cost containment and convenience. Dermabrasion and dermaplaning may be performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You’ll be awake but relaxed, and will feel minimal discomfort. Or, in more severe cases, your surgeon may prefer to use general anesthesia, in which case you’ll sleep through the procedure.

In any case, your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your skin after surgery. For men, this will include delaying shaving for a while, then using an electric razor at first. It’s very important that you understand your doctor’s instructions and follow them exactly, to ensure the best possible healing.

You can expect to be back at work in about two weeks. Your surgeon will probably advise you to avoid any activity that could cause a bump to your face for at least two weeks. More active sports – especially ball sports – should be avoided for four to six weeks. If you swim, stick to indoor pools to avoid sun and wind, and keep your face out of chlorinated water for at least four weeks. It will be at least three to four weeks before you can drink alcohol without experiencing a flush of redness.

Above all, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun until the pigment has completely returned to your skin – as long as six to twelve months. Refinishing treatments can offer dramatic improvements in the surface of your skin.