
Medical Spa Treatments: Dermabrasion |
DermabrasionWhat is it?Dermabrasion is a form of skin resurfacing that is more invasive than microdermabrasion, and is most often used to improve the look of facial skin left scarred by accidents or previous surgery. It is also sometimes used to remove the precancerous growths called keratosis or to treat deep acne scars. Who can have it?Men and women of all ages, from young people to older adults, can benefit from dermabrasion. Although older people heal more slowly, the more important factors include your skin type, coloring, and medical history. For example, black skin, Asian skin, and other dark complexions may become permanently discolored or blotchy after a skin-refinishing treatment. People who develop allergic rashes or other skin reactions, or who get frequent fever blisters or cold sores, may experience a flare-up. If you have freckles, they may disappear in the treated area.1 Are there any contraindications?
Most surgeons won't perform this treatment during the active stages of acne because of a greater risk of infection. The same may be true if you've had radiation treatments, a bad skin burn, or a previous chemical peel.1
What is the pain level? (1-10)3; Dermabrasion may be performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You'll be awake but relaxed, and will feel minimal discomfort. Sometimes a numbing spray, such a freon, is used along with or instead of local anesthesia. In more severe cases, your surgeon may prefer to use general anesthesia, in which case you'll sleep through the procedure. Most full-face dermabrasions require pain medications for about four days.2 What is the average cost?Approximately $1,0753 How long does the treatment take?Dermabrasion is more invasive than microdermabrasion, but the length of the treatment itself depends on the area and skin type being treated. How long do the results last?Refinishing treatments can offer dramatic improvements in the surface of your skin, but it will take some time before you see the final results. The pinkness of your skin will take about three months to fade. In the meantime, you'll probably want to wear non-allergenic makeup when you go out. When your new skin is fully repigmented, the color should closely match the surrounding skin, making the procedure virtually undetectable. Results are typically long-lasting.4 Who can safely administer this treatment?It is important to know the difference between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Dermabrasion is a medical treatment that should only be performed by medical professionals under the supervision of a physician. Microdermabrasion is a more superficial technique that is often performed by estheticians and other medical spa professionals. Because dermabrasion is a medical treatment, prior to your initial treatment, the medical spa should offer you an in-person exam by either a doctor, a nurse practitioner or a physician assistant. Dermabrasion is most typically performed by an MD, PA or NP. Please check with your local medical board, nursing board or health care attorney for more information. What should I be concerned about?The most common risk is a change in skin pigmentation. Permanent darkening of the skin may occur in some patients due to sun exposure in the days or months following surgery. On the other hand, some patients find the treated skin remains a little lighter or blotchy in appearance.
What else do I need to Know?Directly after the procedure, your skin will be fairly red and swollen, and eating and speaking may be difficult. You'll probably feel some tingling, burning, or aching; any pain you feel can be controlled with medications prescribed by your surgeon. The swelling will begin to subside within a few days to a week. You can expect to be back at work in about two weeks.5 Footnotes 1. www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermabrasion.html 2. www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermabrasion.html 3. www.realself.com/Dermabrasion/reviews 4. www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermabrasion.html 5. www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermabrasion.html
Return to Treatment Directory
![]() *Disclaimer: The information and answers contained in this section provide a general guide to laws that apply to "medical spas”. The information contained on this site is for general reference only. This information is not intended to provide legal advice, and it should not be relied upon as legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Readers: You should not act upon this information without seeking knowledgeable legal counsel that takes the laws of your jurisdiction into account. All uses of the content of this site, other than personal uses, are prohibited. |
2/14/2019 » 2/18/2019
11th American-Brazilian Aesthetic Meeting
2/25/2019 » 2/27/2019
Leap Ahead | Blueprint On How To Elevate Your Success
3/7/2019 » 3/10/2019
Mountain West Society of Plastic Surgeons Annual Meeting
3/10/2019 » 3/12/2019
International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conferences