Dermabrasion Procedure

When dermabrasion was first developed, it was used predominantly to improve acne scars, pox marks and scars resulting from accidents or disease.

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Dermabrasion has been used since 1905 when a German dermatologist used the technique for the treatment of post acne scars. The procedure is known to doctors as “surgical skin planning” and “non-chemical peel.” Currently, plastic surgeons use dermabrasion for the treatment of scarring related to acne, a condition known as “rhinophyma” (often referred to as the “W.C. Fields’ nose”) and for acne, rosacea, tattoos, chicken pox, scars, skin growths, multiple pigmented birthmarks, blotchy brown or liver spots, keloids and sun damaged skin.

Dermabrasion and dermaplaning help to "refinish" the skin’s top layers through a method of controlled surgical scraping. The treatments soften the sharp edges of surface irregularities, giving the skin a smoother appearance.

Dermabrasion is most often used to improve the look of facial skin left scarred by accidents or previous surgery, or to smooth out fine facial wrinkles, such as those around the mouth. It’s also sometimes used to remove the pre-cancerous growths called keratoses. Dermaplaning is commonly used to treat deep acne scars.

Both dermabrasion and dermaplaning can be performed on small areas of skin or on the entire face. They can be used alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as facelift, scar removal or revision, or chemical peel.

Benefits of Dermabrasion

Modern life takes a heavy toll on skin because we spend so much time outdoors under the damaging effects of the sun which rapidly age skin – unless precautions are taken. Smoking, stress and aging also take a toll. Dermabrasion usually creates a fresh, more youthful appearance in skin. Moreover, the skin that grows back is usually smoother than that which it replaces.

How is Dermabrasion Performed?

The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis. The surgeon will examine your skin to assess factors that could affect the outcome of the surgery and to determine the proper procedure for your condition. Many surgeons recommend pretreatment with Retin A, for several weeks before seeing the doctor. But before the procedure, a complete medical history is taken and examination is conducted to evaluate the general health of the patient. Skin type and color, ethnic background and age are important factors that should be discussed prior to surgery. Patients may expect to be photographed so a picture can be compared with one taken after the procedure. The procedure can be performed in the surgeon’s office or in an outpatient surgical facility. You maybe given some medication by mouth to better relax you before going ahead.

Some surgeons administer sedation before full face dermabrasions while others use local anesthesia if the area is limited to, for instance, just one scar.

First, the skin is cleansed with antiseptic agent. Many surgeons freeze the skin with ice packs or a spray that freezes the skin.

After that, the surgeon uses a hand-held high speed rotating dermabrasion machine — about the size of a pencil — with a small cone of sandpaper or a stiff brush on its end. That instrument sands down the outer layer of the old skin and leaves a scab which remains on the face for about a week. As the scab peels off, new skin appears and is very pink. Infection and excessive bleeding are easily controlled. Discoloration and swelling may occur for several months. During that time, hypoallergenic makeup is usually recommended. Most people can return to normal activities in seven to ten days while the new skin is largely healed by 12 weeks.

Acne scarring is currently the most common reason for having dermabrasion.

Are You a Candidate for a Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion and dermaplaning can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but neither treatment will remove all scars and flaws or prevent aging. Before you decide to have a skin-refinishing treatment, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.

Men and women of all ages, from young people to older adults, can benefit from dermabrasion and dermaplaning. Although older people heal more slowly, more important factors are 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.

In addition, most surgeons won’t perform 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.

Are There Side Effects and Complications With Dermabrasion?

Side effects are uncommon but they do occur. The most common side effects include:

1. Uneven changes in skin color (temporary or permanent)
2. Darkening of the skin (temporary or permanent)
3. Formation of a scar
4. Infection

How much does Dermabrasion cost?

The cost of dermabrasion procedure is an important ingredient in the decision-making process. In most cases, the cost of procedures varies from doctor to doctor and can be influenced by geographical location. The national average of 1999 surgeon fees for dermabrasion was $1,383 (Source: The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery).

Regional averages:

New England states: $1,522;
Middle Atlantic states: $1,576;
North central states: $1,399;
South central states: $1,240;
Mountain/Pacific states: $1,249.

These fees do not include anesthesia, operating room facility, hospital stay and other related expenses which can add up to anywhere between $1200 to $4000.

In most cases the approximate fee for a dermabrasion is between $2,000.00 and $3,000.00, but you can discuss with your physician an individual fee. The cost for full face dermabrasion is about $4,000. If you have acne scars and want only your cheeks treated, expect to pay about $3,000. If you want only your lips treated, expect to pay about $1,500.

Additionally if you’re having dermabrasion done to remove scarring or precancerous skin growths, your insurance may cover the cost.

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