WHAT IS DERMABRASION?Dermabrasion is a technique that can reduce the visibility of skin irregularities and scars. Dermabrasion involves abrading the skin (derma) down to the papillary dermis (the layer beneath the epidermis). Plastic surgeons primarily use dermabrasion to remove tattoos, wrinkles, and acne scars. The best results are achieved with superficial, shallow scars.HOW IS DERMABRASION PERFORMED?Dermabrasion is performed under general or local anesthesia. This depends on the size of the skin area to be treated. Before the doctor begins the treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleaned. A rapidly rotating brush with steel wire or a rapidly rotating disc with diamond grit is used to shave the skin. The shaving is done at a high speed, with the pressure exerted determining the depth reached. It may be necessary to treat a skin lesion with dermabrasion multiple times.
AFTER DERMABRASIONAfter dermabrasion, the treated skin is sometimes bandaged first. Alternatively, ointment or cream may be applied immediately. You should continue this treatment at home. Your doctor can advise you on the best ointment or cream to use. In most cases, the skin is healed after a week. The treated skin will remain pinkish-red for several months. During this time, you should not expose it to the sun or use a tanning bed.RISKS AND COMPLICATIONSDermabrasion carries the risk of pigmentation abnormalities in the treated skin. In some cases, hypopigmentation (less pigment) occurs in the treated skin, sometimes making the boundary between the treated skin and normal skin very noticeable. Hyperpigmentation (increased pigment formation) resulting from dermabrasion is less common and is often temporary. Another possible complication is the development of noticeable grooves in the skin or scarring due to excessively deep dermabrasion.COMPENSATIONDermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance. You will therefore have to pay for the procedure yourself. Your plastic surgeon can provide you with a precise cost estimate. |
