Dermabrasion & Microdermabrasion

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a resurfacing procedure where the skin is mechanically sanded to achieve a rejuvenated appearance.  It is used to treat substantial scarring, pigmentation and sun damage.  Only experienced, skilled dermatologists should perform this procedure, which involves using an abrasive instrument to remove outer skin layers and to smooth the skin overall.  The results are generally quite remarkable and long lasting.

Microdermabrasion uses micro-particles to abrade and rub off the top skin layer, vacuuming out the particles and dead skin.  This non-invasive treatment produces virtually no discomfort, requires no topical or local anesthesia and involves practically no recovery or downtime.

Dermabrasion Treatment

From the beginning of time, people suffering from the disfigurement of facial scarring have searched for ways to improve these imperfections. Thanks to refinements of a number of dermatologic surgical techniques, there are several safe, effective procedures available today to improve facial scarring, including dermabrasion or scarabrasion.

What is Dermabrasion?

While more than 100 years old, dermabrasion has enjoyed a resurgence of popularity since the 1960's. The resurfacing technique has been further perfected over the last few decades.  During dermabrasion, or surgical skin planing, the dermatologist freezes the patient's skin, scarred from acne, chicken pox or other causes. The doctor then mechanically removes or "sands" the skin to improve the contour and achieve a rejuvenated appearance as a new layer of remodeled skin replaces the damaged skin. The new skin generally has a smoother and refreshed appearance. Results are generally quite remarkable and long lasting.

When is Dermabrasion indicated?

When dermabrasion was first developed, it was used predominantly to improve acne scars, chicken pox marks and scars resulting from accidents or disease. Today, it is also used to treat other skin conditions, such as pigmentation, wrinkles, sun damage, tattoos, age (liver)  spots and certain types of skin lesions. The treatment may also be applied to select areas of deformed skin.   The conditions under which dermabrasion would not be effective include the presence of congenital skin defects, certain types of moles or pigmented birthmarks and scars from burns.

What happens prior to surgery?

Before surgery, a complete medical history is taken and a careful examination is conducted in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. During the consultation, the dermatologist describes the types of anesthesia that may be used, the procedure and what results might realistically be expected. The doctor also explains the possible risks and complications that may occur. Photographs are taken before and after surgery to help evaluate the amount of improvement. Pre-operative and post-operative instructions are given to the patient at this time.

How does the procedure work?

Dermabrasion can be performed in the dermatologist's office or in an outpatient surgical facility. Medication to relax the patient may be given prior to surgery. The area is thoroughly cleansed with antiseptic cleansing agent. The area to be "sanded" is treated with a spray that freezes the skin. Sometimes local tumescent anesthesia can be used. A high-speed rotary instrument with an abrasive wheel or brush removes or abrades the upper layers of the skin and improves irregularities in the skin surface.

What happens after the surgery?

For a few days, the skin feels as though it has been severely "brush-burned." Medications may be prescribed to alleviate any discomfort the patient may have. Healing usually occurs within 7 to 10 days. 

The newly formed skin, which is pink at first, gradually develops a normal appearance. In most cases, the pinkness has largely faded by eight to 12 weeks. Make-up can be used as a cover-up as soon as the crust is off. Generally, most people can resume their normal occupation in seven to 10 days after dermabrasion. Patients are instructed to avoid unnecessary direct and indirect sunlight for 3 to 6 months after the procedure and to use a sunscreen on a regular basis when outdoors.

Microdermabrasion

What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a procedure that uses a highly controlled stream of fine aluminum oxide crystals which are sprayed onto the skin under pressure and suctioned by simultaneous vacuum to remove the very top layer (stratum corneum) of the skin. This procedure was approved by the FDA in 1997, after having been used successfully for almost 9 years in Europe. The microdermabrasion procedure is ideal for the busy person who wants to improve their appearance but does not have time for more aggressive procedures such as laser resurfacing or deeper chemical peeling. It is an exciting new procedure in our array of treatments for improving the appearance of the skin. 

What condition does the microdermabrasion treat?

The microdermabrasion procedure can improve blackheAids and whiteheAids, fine wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, acne-prone skin, and superficial age spots. All skin types can be treated. Patients notice improvement in the texture and appearance of the skin, so that makeup can be applied more evenly.

How long is the procedure and what is the recovery period?

The advantage of this procedure is that it is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that takes approximately 30 minutes and there is no recuperative period. Makeup can be applied directly after the procedure. There is little pain or discomfort and no downtime.

Are there any risks with the procedure?

There are minimal risks with the procedure, the most common side effect being redness of the skin which usually is gone after 24-48 hours and easily covered with makeup; however, men having the procedure performed are finding that the redness is minor and short lasting.

How many times does the procedure need to be performed to achieve results?

The average patient requires between 5-9 treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart to see results. However, it appears that because patients do see continuing results, many choose to have the procedure performed monthly as a maintenance treatment.

Additional Information on Microdermabrasion:

• Acne: It's More Treatable Then Ever

• Options Plentiful for Those Seeking Skin-Deep Beauty