Useful information for patients on Dermabrasion - skin rejuvenation using mechanical abrasion to exfoliate top skin layers and stimulate skin rejuvenation.
Dermabrasion is a controlled mechanical exfoliation of the top layers of skin to improve texture, pigmentation, and scarring in an even and controlled way. It can also help with some types of scars including acne scars.
Microdermabrasion is a milder form of dermabrasion that stays more superficially in the skin with no bleeding post-procedure and less downtime. The effects are however milder than full dermabrasion.
Dermabrasion uses a specialised device to gently remove the outer layers of the skin. The treated area forms a superficial wound that heals naturally as new skin grows from the edges and remaining hair follicles and glands. The depth of treatment is controlled by the practitioner, and removing too much skin can increase the risk of scarring.
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Suitable for patients looking to improve:
Treatment may not be suitable if you have:
Before surgery, patients typically undergo:
Ensure you consider all aspects of a procedure. You can speak to your surgeon about these areas of the surgery in more detail during a consultation.
How Long Is the Procedure?
30-60 minutes depending on the extent of dermabrasion.
Do I Need Anesthesia?
None, usually a topical local anaesthetic.
Is The Procedure Inpatient or Outpatient?
Usually a day procedure unless combined with other procedures.
Side effects may include:
Dermabrasion risks include:
Risks can be reduced by carefully protecting your skin from the sun while healing and following your specific aftercare advice and skin care.
Your skin will feel tight and can be raw and swollen to a variable extent depending on the depth of dermabrasion. Healing takes a couple of weeks, with temporary pinkness afterward.
You must protect your skin from the sun (SPF50) while healing and you may have very specific skin care regimes prescribed for the healing period. It is important to follow these.
Results last weeks to months depending on treatment depth. Full dermabrasion has more effects and is longer-lasting than milder microdermabrasion. Combining dermabrasion skin rejuvenation with long-term skin care such as retinoid/retinol-based skin care, sun protection, and not smoking will help you maintain the results of dermabrasion rejuvenation for longer.
Please note: Individual results vary from patient to patient due to factors such as age, skin quality, body type, and overall health. To understand what results you can expect, consult with a qualified aesthetic board-certified plastic surgeon.