Dermabrasion
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 planning, the dermatologic surgeon
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 dermatologic surgeon 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. Preoperative and postoperative
instructions are given to the patient at this time.
How Does the Procedure Work?
Dermabrasion can be performed in the dermatologic surgeon'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 three to six months after the procedure and to use
a sunscreen on a regular basis when outdoors.
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