The Facts About Skin Sanding (Dermabrasion):

Dermabrasion is primarily used for the smoothing of surface irregularities produced by the scars of acne. It can also be used in the treatment of the aging face to smooth wrinkled skin. Dermabrasion is most often combined with full facial laser resurfacing for the treatment of acne scars. It is a technique in which the skin is mechanically abraded with a special surgical instrument. The procedure is done in our accredited operating suite on an outpatient basis.

Once dermabrasion is completed, the areas are cleansed and a dressing is applied. The dressing will be removed 24 hours later at our facility. The dermabraded area generally oozes for approximately 48 hours and it must be continuously covered with a special cream provided by our office, which prevents dryness and promotes healing. Following surgery, the face and eyelids are generally swollen for 48 hours. It is helpful to sleep with the head elevated. Facial swelling diminishes rapidly after the third day and the skin can generally be covered with cosmetics in seven days.

It is important that the patient avoid sun exposure completely for the first six weeks following the procedure, and continues to be careful about sun exposure for the first six months. A sunblock of at least 45 SPF is used for the first six months, and occasionally a bleaching agent is also used.

The skin will appear pink for anywhere from three to four weeks; however, it can easily be camouflaged. Most patients experience only a mild amount of discomfort and burning following the dermabrasion. This is easily controlled with medications. Most patients reassume work within 10 days of a full-face dermabrasion.

Patients who have had repeated cold sores (herpes I infection) of the lips and face could develop cold sores after surgical dermabrasion. Please be sure to let this office know if you have a history of this condition. All of our patients are placed on prophylactic antibiotic and anti-viral medications. This is particularly true in patients who have had cold sores in the past.