Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are two procedures that have been used extensively to soften scar contours, treat severe acne or post-surgical scarring, and help achieve better results in several reconstructive surgeries on the face and neck.
Dermabrasion consists of removing the surface layers of the epidermis by scraping the skin with a sharp instrument, such as a diamond, wire brush, or even sterile sandpaper.
This is done at the level of the depth of the scar to be treated. The resulting wound is then covered with an ointment or bandage and carefully treated for a few weeks so that natural healing occurs by the ingrowth of epidermal cells from the adjacent normal skin.
The skin appears raw and red immediately after the procedure, and swelling may persist throughout the early healing period. However, normal facial coloring is usually achieved in about 12 weeks.
Dermabrasion of cheekbones. Image credit: Vagengeim / Shutterstock
Dermabrasion – Medical or Cosmetic
Dermabrasion is undeniably a surgical procedure and is therefore only performed by a plastic surgeon trained in cosmetic surgery, to optimize results and avoid side effects such as post-surgery hyperpigmentation.
Any procedure that goes beyond the most superficial levels of the skin falls under the category of medicine and not cosmetic treatment, even if it is intended to remove cosmetic defects such as scars or wrinkles.
Therefore, only licensed doctors, whether dermatologists or plastic surgeons, registered nurses or physician assistants can do it, and that too under medical supervision.
Dermatologists
Dermatologists are doctors trained to care for the body’s largest organ. the skin. Their practice also includes the treatment of diseases of the hair, nails and mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and eyelids.
Some of the diseases they treat include acne, paronychia, nail dystrophy and eczema. In addition, dermatologists also help patients correct the appearance of their skin, hair and nails.
They can help minimize the effects of photodamage, age spots, wrinkles, acne scars and also help restore the aesthetic appearance after reconstructive surgery.
A dermatologist meets the following basic criteria to obtain a degree in this subject:
- College degree
- Medical School
- One year of internship
- Residency program of 3 or more years in dermatology
- If desired, board certification that certifies the physician’s knowledge, skills, and experience. Board recertifications are now required every 10 years to keep experts in the field up to date.
Plastic Surgeons
Plastic surgeons are also medical professionals trained to perform reconstructive surgery.
Their purpose is to restore or improve both the form and function of the operated body part (such as with a cleft palate or a disabling scar), rather than simply a cosmetic change that alters the appearance of a functional body part ( plastic surgery).
Dermabrasion is part of the cosmetic surgery arsenal, which requires further training in cosmetic surgery, which also includes tummy tuck, hair restoration or breast augmentation procedures.
Most plastic surgeons have completed at least 6 years of residency programs after completing basic medical training.
