Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure used to resurface the skin.
It is done to removewrinklesorscarsand improve the appearance of the skin.
It uses a tool that removes the upper layers of the skin.
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As the wound heals, new skin grows to replace the damaged skin.
This article will discuss all the aspects of dermabrasion.
Its purpose, how it is done, and recovery.
It will also cover the risks and contraindications of (reasons to avoid) the procedure.
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What Is Dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is an outpatient cosmetic procedure that utilizes a tool to remove the outer layers of the skin.
It is performed to improve the skin’s appearance.
On the face, it is commonly done to lessen the appearance of wrinkles and scars.
Not everyone is a good candidate for dermabrasion, and results will vary.
Who Is It For?
Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion
Dermabrasion andmicrodermabrasionare cosmetic procedures that offer similar yet distinct results.
Microdermabrasionis a less-invasive form of dermabrasion.
It uses a tool that removes the top layer of the skin.
It causes significant injury to the skin to remove scarring and wrinkles.
Contradictions
Dermabrasion is a significant procedure that is not for everyone.
While almost anyone can get dermabrasion, a few contraindications need to be considered.
Consult with a healthcare provider for an individualized assessment.
The risks that surround dermabrasion involve the postoperative healing period.
The risks are:
Purpose of Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is an elective cosmetic procedure.
It is done to smooth or improve the appearance of the skin.
Dermabrasion can be used to improve scars from acne, accidents, or previous surgery.
It is also used to smooth out wrinkles or removekeratoses(noncancerous skin growths).
An alternative to dermabrasion is achemical peel.
How to Prepare
Some steps need to be done to properly prepare for dermabrasion.
They are listed below.
An overnight stay is typically not necessary.
Medications
Before a dermabrasion procedure, a healthcare provider will review current medications.
They will look forblood-thinningmedicines likeaspirinand may ask the patient to stop taking them in preparation for the procedure.
What to Bring
Going into a surgical procedure can be nerve-wracking.
Make a list of items to bring so the morning of the procedure, everything is set.
Bring any assigned preoperative paperwork.
If sedation orgeneral anesthesiais to be used, arrange for a ride home ahead of time.
Some surgical centers and hospitals will not begin a surgical procedure if a ride home has not been secured.
This is to reduce the risk of skin color changes.
Smokingdecreases blood circulation in the skin and hinders healing.Stop smokingfor one to two weeks before and after surgery.
This may include questions, vital signs, and education about the procedure.
An anesthesiologist and surgeon may check in with the patient before the procedure to answer any questions.
During the Procedure
The procedure begins with theanesthesiologistensuring the patient is comfortable.
This is accomplished with numbing medicine placed on the face, local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia.
The patient should not feel any pain during the procedure.
Dermabrasion is performed by a plastic surgeon ordermatologist.
They may have an assistant present to hold the skin taut.
The procedure can take a few minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the area.
Dermabrasion may be done only once or may happen in several stages if there is significant scarring.
Once the patient is comfortable, the procedure can begin.
The skin will be scraped with the tool until the desired depth is achieved.
The surgeon will then apply an ointment and dressing to the skin.
After the Procedure
After dermabrasion, the skin will be red andswollen.
Eating and speaking can be hard.
There will be some burning or aching.
Swelling will decrease in a few days to a week.Paincan be controlled with medication prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Recovery
After a dermabrasion procedure, patients can expect to return to work in about two weeks.
They should avoid activities that could cause them to hit or bump their faces for two weeks.
Sports should be avoided for four to six weeks.
Avoid the sun until theskin pigmenthas entirely returned.
Healing
The surgeon will give detailed instructions on how to care for the skinafter the procedure.
The instructions will outline dressing changes, ointments, and changes expected to occur to your skin.
When an area begins to get worse after it has gotten better, call your healthcare provider.
This could be a sign thatabnormal scarsare forming.
If wearing makeup, choose nonallergenic brands.
It is an outpatient procedure that can take several weeks for a full recovery.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Dermabrasion and dermaplaning.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Microdermabrasion.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Dermabrasion.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.What are the risks of dermabrasion?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.What are the steps of a dermabrasion procedure?
