Division of Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Dermabrasion

What is dermabrasion?
Similar to a chemical peel, dermabrasion is a procedure that removes fine wrinkles and/or minimizes scars on the skin.

The difference between a chemical peel and dermabrasion is the method used. Dermabrasion involves the surgeon utilizing a high speed rotating brush to remove the top layer of skin. The size and depth of the scars as well as the degree of wrinkling determine the appropriate level of skin that will be surgically sloughed.

Possible complications commonly associated with dermabrasion:

fever blisters
Dermabrasion can cause fever blisters to reappear in those who are prone to frequent Herpes infections. Anti-viral medications are often used to treat this symptom.

pigmentation changes
Some individuals may develop a change in the pigmentation of their skin after undergoing the procedure. Treatment for this symptom may include the use of bleaching creams, as prescribed by a physician. A decrease in pigmentation can be permanent.

thickened skin
Thickening of the skin can develop. This symptom may be treated with cortisone creams or injections which help the skin return to its' normal state.

What is dermaplaning?
Dermaplaning is used to treat deep acne scars with a hand-held instrument called a dermatome.

The dermatome resembles an electric razor and has an oscillating blade that moves back and forth to evenly "skim" off the surface layers of skin that surround the craters or other facial defects.

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.

Neither treatment will remove all scars and flaws, or prevent aging.

Who can benefit from dermabrasion or dermaplaning?
Men and women of all ages can benefit from dermabrasion and dermaplaning. Important factors are:

skin type
skin coloring
medical history

About the procedure:

Location options include:
- surgeon's office-based surgical facility
- outpatient surgery center
- hospital outpatient
- hospital inpatient
Anesthetic options include:
- local anesthesia, combined with a sedative (allows the patient to remain awake but relaxed)
- a numbing spray, such a freon, may be used along with or instead of local anesthesia
- general anesthesia
Probable length of procedure: from a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the size of the area of skin to be refinished. The procedure may be performed more than once, or in stages.
Short-term side effects of surgery:
- the skin will be red and swollen
- eating and talking may be difficult for a few days following the procedure
- tingling, burning, or aching may occur
- swelling
- scabbing

As the new skin starts to grow, it may appear and feel swollen, sensitive, and bright pink, which may take about three months to fade. Protection from the sun is very important following this type of procedure.

This page was last updated on: September 20, 2007.

For more information about UM Division of Plastic Surgery or to make an appointment, please call 1-800-492-5538 or 410-328-2360 (patients) or 1-800-373-4111 (physicians).