About Dermbrasion
Are You a Candidate for Dermabrasion?
About the Procedure
What to Expect after the Procedure
Possible Complications
About 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 resulting in the skin having a smoother appearance.
Dermabrasion is most often used to improve the appearance of facial skin left scarred by previous surgery or accidents, or to smooth out fine facial wrinkles. It is also sometimes used to remove 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 repair, or chemical peel.
Are You a Candidate for Dermabrasion?
Men and women of any age can benefit from dermabrasion and dermaplaning. The most important factors are your skin type, coloring, and medical history. Black, Asian, and other dark complexions risk becoming permanently discolored or blotchy after a dermabrasion treatment. People who frequently develop allergic rashes or other skin reactions, or experience frequent cold sores or fever blisters may experience a flare-up. If you have freckles, they may disappear in the treated area.
If you suffer from active acne, or have radiation treatments, a bad skin burn, or a previous chemical peel, Dr. Javaheri may advise against the procedure to the greater risk of infection.
During your initial consultation, it is important that you honestly discuss with Dr. Javaheri your expectations for the procedure, ask any questions you may have or express any concerns.
At the time of your consultation Dr. Javaheri will ask you about your general medical history, specifically pertaining to any medical conditions that could cause problems during or after your procedure.
About the Procedure
Dermabrasion and dermaplaning are usually performed using a local anesthetic in conjunction with a sedative to help you relax. The procedures can last anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour depending on how large an area of skin is be treated.
For dermabrasion, Dr. Javaheri will scrape away the outermost layer of skin with a rough wire brush, or a burr containing diamond particles that is attached to a motorized handle, until the scar or wrinkle is less visible.
For dermaplaning, Dr. Javaheri will use a hand-held instrument called a dermatome. The dermatome has an oscillating blade that moves back and forth to evenly "skim" off the exterior layers of skin. Dr. Javaheri will continue to use the dermatome until the lowest point of the acne scar becomes as even as possible with the surrounding skin.
What to Expect after the Procedure
After your procedure, your skin will be red and swollen, and you may find eating and talking difficult. You will also probably feel some tingling, burning, or aching, which can be alleviated with prescribed medications. After a few days to a week, the swelling will begin to subside in a few days to a week.
A scab or crust may form over the treated area as it begins to heal. This will fall off as a new layer of tight, pink skin continues to grow underneath. Your face may itch as the new skin starts to grow. Your new skin will be swollen, sensitive, and bright pink for several weeks.
In most cases, you will be able to return to work in about two weeks following your procedure. You will need to avoid any activity that could cause any harm to your face for at least two weeks. More active sports, particularly ball sports, should be avoided for four to six weeks.
Most importantly, you must protect your skin from the sun until the pigment has completely returned to your skin, which can take as long as six to twelve months.
Possible Complications
Individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their physical reactions, and their healing abilities, and the outcome is never completely predictable. As with any surgical procedure, the risk of infection is always a possibility. This can be minimized by the preventative administration of antibiotics both at the time of your surgery and afterwards while in recovery. However, on occasion, mild infection can occur and is relatively common, although it usually subsides after two weeks.
People who frequently develop allergic rashes or other skin reactions, or experience frequent cold sores or fever blisters may experience a flare-up. If you have freckles, they may disappear in the treated area.
If you notice the treated area beginning to get worse instead of better, it may be a sign that abnormal scars are beginning to form. It is important to contact Dr. Javaheri as soon as possible in order to arrange corrective treatment.
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