Dermabrasion
Definition
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Dermabrasion is the removal of the top layers of the skin. It is a type of skin smoothing surgery.
Description
Dermabrasion is usually done while you are awake. The health care provider will apply a numbing medicine (local anesthesia) to the area of skin that will be worked on.
If you are having a complex procedure, you may be given medicines called sedatives to make you sleepy and less anxious, or you may receive general anesthesia, which allows you to sleep through surgery and not feel any pain during the procedure.
Dermabrasion uses a special device to gently and carefully "sand" the top surface of the skin down to normal, healthy skin. Petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment is placed on the treated skin to reduce scab formation and scaring.
Risks
Risks of dermabrasion include permanent skin coloring changes (either lighter, darker, or pinker).
The risks of any anesthesia include:
- Reactions to medications
- Infrequent but potentially severe heart or breathing problems
The risks of any surgery include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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