Dermabrasion is used to get smoother and younger looking face by softening the skin irregularities. It involves a rotating device that ‘sands’ off the top layer of the skin. The skin present underneath will be much softer, clearer and smoother giving a youthful appearance after the procedure.
From young adults to old people, anyone can go dermabrasion. But, there are a few conditions when dermabrasion is not suitable. You cannot go for dermabrasion if:
• You have active signs of acne, which may lead to infections.
• You are suffering from a bad reaction to any previous skin treatments like chemical peeling or any radiation treatment.
• You suffer from any allergic skin reactions.
• You have rashes on your skin.
• Your skin tone is dark which could open the risk of permanent discoloration or blotched skin after dermabrasion.
This is true for most Indians.
If your body suffers any skin damages, dermabrasion can help in achieving a smooth looking skin devoid of the abnormalities. It can help in the treatment of:
• Fine lines
• Sunburn
• Acne scars
• Uneven skin tone
• Skin lesions
• Wrinkles
• Age spots
• Scars from injury or surgery
With many specialists promising great benefits with dermabrasion, it is important to go with a plastic surgeon who owns credible experience in performing dermabrasion treatments.
During the initial consultation with the surgeon, you should be ready with all your medical details. The surgeon will analyze your medical history and the medications you currently take. He will also examine your face to understand your present skin condition.
Be clear with the surgeon about your expectations and keep an open mind. The surgeon may sometimes recommend alternate forms of treatment to achieve best results based on your requirements and the skin condition.
Once the surgeon is sure that dermabrasion is suitable for you, he will brief you about the procedure. He will also provide you with some instructions to get ready for the treatment.
• If you are a smoker, you should stop smoking for five to six weeks before the scheduled date of treatment.
• The surgeon may stop some medications that may hinder blood clotting.
• You should avoid sun exposure for at least a month or two before the treatment as it could lead to skin discolouration.
• The surgeon may prescribe an anti-viral medication, a retinoid cream and an antibiotic medication before the surgery to avoid infections and help in healing.
Dermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure, so the surgeon is more likely to give local anesthesia to numb your face. In addition, he will also give you a sedative to keep you awake but relaxed. This process can take anywhere between a few minutes to an hour depending on the amount of coverage and the intensity of the treatment.
One of the surgeon’s assistants will hold your skin tightly. He will ‘sand’ off the outer skin layer with a rough brush or motorized equipment containing diamond particles. The size of the device will vary depending on the area thus used. The surgeon will move the device over the skin and sometimes, the procedure may take one or two stages to achieve the best results.
The specialist will continue the scraping until the smooth skin beneath is revealed. He may then complete the procedure by applying an ointment and dress up the treated areas.
After the surgery, you will be discharged soon to your home. Here are some important after care measures to take.
Dressing
You may need to visit the surgeon after a few days to remove the dressing. In the meantime, the surgeon will give you instructions to take care of the dressing on your own at home. You will need to clean the treated area with particular products, apply ointment as instructed, and keep your face safe from any damages.
Time for Healing
The surgeon will prescribe some medications to help with the pain. Depending on the healing, you can return to your work in one to two weeks, but there may be some signs of redness on the new skin. The skin will turn pink at first, and the normal color of your skin will return after three to four months.
• Use clean and fresh water to wash the face.
• Use only the products recommended by the surgeon.
• Do not apply makeup for at least two to three weeks.
• Do not go out in the sun for a month after the surgery.
• Avoid sun exposure as much as possible for up to a year and even if you have to, apply a high SPF sunscreen after consulting the surgeon.
• Cover your face from dust at all times.
• Avoid swimming, as the chlorine in the water will cause extreme redness and burning sensation.
• Stay away from activities and sports that could cause your skin harm.
If you see an increase in the size of the swelling or redness, then contact the surgeon immediately.
To conclude, Dermabrasion is an effective yet not a permanent procedure. Exposure to sun, pollution and chemical products could result in damaging your new skin. Ageing may also bring back the fine lines treated by dermabrasion and therefore, proper care is important to keep the smooth, new skin as long as possible.
The information is being provided by PlasticSurgery.in and have no intention to replace the medical advice of your doctor. Please consult your doctor directly for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed by Dr. Tejinder Bhatti, Plastic Surgeon on: 20-JUN-2020
“Dr. Tejinder Bhatti is a cosmetic plastic surgeon by training but now completely dedicated to the art and science of minimally invasive hair restoration surgery. He also runs a hospital, the Five Rivers Hospital in Mohali, Chandigarh where junior plastic surgeons perform esthetic plastic surgery under the overall supervision of Dr. Kulwant S Bhangoo who is the Chairman of the Program. Dr. Bhangoo is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. He is an internationally renowned top cosmetic surgeon and chief of Plastic Surgery in Buffalo NY, USA.”