Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a surgical skin refinishing technique that involves the application of a handheld instrument called a dermabrader to blemishes and other skin imperfections. The abraders, usually diamond fraises, fine sandpaper or wire brushes, work to scrape away blemishes from the outermost layers of the skin. A high-speed rotary wheel powers the dermabrader, making the abraders spin quickly; when applied to skin disfigurations, the dermabrader peels away the damaged top layer, leaving smoother skin with fewer wrinkles.

Benefits of dermabrasion include:

  • Effectively removes acne scars
  • Smoothes wrinkles and fine lines
  • Improves skin texture and tone

Perhaps the most significant benefit of all is that only one dermabrasion treatment is enough to see results.

Who is An Ideal Candidate for Dermabrasion?

You may want to consider dermabrasion treatment if you have noticeable imperfections in skin texture. Individuals with black or Asian skin, or any darker complexion should know that dermabrasion treatment can cause pigmentation changes.

You plastic surgeon might recommend dermabrasion for treating the following symptoms:

  • Freckles and small patches of pigmentation
  • Unwanted tattoos
  • Pre-cancerous lesions

What Happens During Dermabrasion Treatment?

The procedure often takes place in an office setting and lasts approximately 30-60 minutes. Local anesthesia is often administered to reduce pain during treatment. Once the skin has been cleansed, the area being treated is stained with gentian violet to determine the degree of abrasion needed. Next, the surgeon selects the technique, abrader tips, speed, rotation movement and pressure most appropriate for your skin. He then initiates treatment, making smooth, precise movements over your skin with the device.

After the Treatment

Your skin will be wrapped in gauze with topical anesthetic immediately following the procedure; ice will also be applied to reduce swelling. The surgeon will instruct you on how to cleanse the area, and how to replace the dressing, gauze and tape. Healing time is predicted to be about 1-2 weeks.

Please call us at the Department of Plastic Surgery at the University of Kansas if you would like to find out more about the costs, risks and benefits of dermabrasion. You can reach us at 913-588-2000.