Q - What is dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing procedure which uses a method of controlled surgical scraping with a high speed rotating brush to remove the damaged top layer of the skin. Dermabrasion can improve the appearance of facial wrinkles, scars and other surface irregularities. The entire face or smaller areas may be treated.
Q - How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dermabrasion?
If you are physically healthy, realistic in your expectations, and seeking an improvement in the appearance of your facial skin, you may be a good candidate for dermabrasion. Treatment may need to be postponed for patients with active acne or skin burns, or those who have recently undergone radiation treatment or a chemical peel. Special considerations may need to be made for patients with dark complexions as they may be at an increased risk of skin discoloration.
Q - What will happen during a consultation for dermabrasion?
During your consultation for dermabrasion, the surgeon will talk to you about your goals and what you dislike about your skin. A thorough medical history will be taken and your face examined. All aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the associated costs. Photographs may be also be taken of your face at the time of consultation.
Q - Where does the dermabrasion procedure take place?
Dermabrasion may take place in a surgeon’s office-based facility, an outpatient surgical center or hospital.
Q - What type of anesthesia will I receive for my dermabrasion procedure?
Dermabrasion is often performed with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may be used for more severe cases.
Q - How is dermabrasion performed?
Dermabrasion is performed with a high speed rotating brush which scrapes away the outermost layer of skin. The brush will be used until the imperfection is made less visible. Once the procedure is completed, ointment and a dressing may be applied to the skin.
Q - How long is the procedure for dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion may take as little as a few minutes when treating smaller areas to as much as an hour when treating the whole face. More than one session may be required.
Q - How much pain can I expect from the dermabrasion procedure?
You may experience some discomfort as the skin may tingle, burn or ache, but this can be relieved with medication.
Q - What should I expect of the recovery after my dermabrasion procedure?
You should expect some swelling and redness, and the redness will fade within about one to three months. A soft diet may be necessary at first, and talking and eating may prove difficult. A scab or crust will form on the treatment area, and the new skin will emerge within a week or two. Ointments may need to be applied to the skin for seven to ten days.
Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my dermabrasion procedure?
Normal activities, including work, can usually be resumed in about two weeks.
Q - How soon after my dermabrasion procedure will I be able to exercise?
Any exercise or activity that may bump the face will need to be avoided for at least two weeks, and sun exposure will need to be limited for six months to a year.
Q - What risks are associated with dermabrasion?
AS with most cosmetic procedures, there are some risks associated with dermabrasion and these may include abnormal color changes, tiny whiteheads, infection, scarring, and flare-up of skin allergies, fever blisters, or cold sores.
Q - Will my dermabrasion procedure be covered by insurance?
Dermabrasion procedures which are solely cosmetic in nature are generally not covered by insurance. When used to treat precancerous skin growth or extensive scars, some coverage may be available. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.
Q - Can I finance my dermabrasion procedure?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.
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