Definition
Dermabrasion is the removal of the upper layers of the skin. It is a type of surgical skin smoothing.
Description
Dermabrasion is usually done by a doctor, either a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist. The procedure is performed in your office or at an outpatient clinic.
You’ll probably be awake. A numbing medicine (local anesthetic) will be applied to the skin to be treated.
If you are having a complicated procedure, you may be given medicines called sedatives to make you sleepy and less anxious. Another option is general anesthesia, which allows you to sleep during surgery and feel no pain during the procedure.
Dermabrasion uses a special device to gently and carefully “smooth” the top surface of the skin back to normal, healthy skin. Vaseline or antibiotic ointment is placed on the treated skin to prevent spots and scars from forming.
Why is the process running?
Dermabrasion may be helpful if you have:
- Age-related skin growths
- Fine lines and wrinkles, such as around the mouth
- Precancerous growths
- Scars on the face due to acne, accidents or previous surgery
- Reduce the appearance of sun damage and photoaging
For many of these conditions, other treatments can be done, such as laser or chemical peels, or medicine injected into the skin. Talk to your provider about treatment options for your skin problem.
Risks
The risks of any anesthesia and surgery in general include:
- Drug reactions, breathing problems
- Bleeding, blood clots, infection
Risks of dermabrasion include:
- Lasting skin color changes with the skin remaining lighter, darker or pinker
- Scars
After the Process
After the procedure:
- Your skin will be red and swollen. The swelling usually goes down within 2 to 3 weeks.
- You may feel pain, tingling or burning for a while. The doctor may prescribe medication to control the pain.
- If you have had herpes in the past, your doctor may give you an antiviral medication to prevent an outbreak.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for skin care after you go home.
During treatment:
- The new layer of skin will be slightly swollen, tender, itchy and bright pink for several weeks.
- Healing time depends on the extent of the dermabrasion or the size of the treatment area.
- Most people can return to their normal activities in about 2 weeks. You should avoid any activity that could cause injury to the treated area. Avoid sports involving balls, such as baseball, for 4 to 6 weeks.
- For about 3 weeks after surgery, your skin will be red when you drink alcohol.
- Men who have this procedure may need to avoid shaving for a while and use an electric razor when shaving again.
Protect your skin from the sun for 6 to 12 weeks or until your skin color returns to normal. You can wear hypoallergenic makeup to hide any changes in skin color. The new skin should closely match the surrounding skin when the full color returns.
Outlook
If your skin remains red and swollen after it begins to heal, it may be a sign that abnormal scarring is forming. Tell your doctor if this happens. Treatment may be available.
People with dark skin are at greater risk of developing dark skin spots after the procedure.
bibliographical references
Monheit GD, Chastain MA. Chemical and mechanical skin regeneration. In: Bologna JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 4th ed.Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018: chapter 154.
Perkins SW, Floyd EM. Management of skin aging. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 7th ed.Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021: chapter 23.
