DERMABRASION: |Dermabrasion (also called “dermaplaning”) refinishes the skin’s surface through a method of controlled surgical sanding or scraping. The treatments soften any prominent 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 the radial lines around the mouth.
Dermabrasion is also sometimes used to remove the pre-cancerous growths called actinic or solar keratoses. Dermaplaning is commonly used to treat the deep crater type of acne scars. These procedures can be performed on small areas of skin or on the entire face. They can be used alone, or in conjunction with other rejuvenative procedures such as facelift or blepharoplasty.
The Surgical Procedure
Dermabrasion and dermaplaning can be performed fairly quickly. The procedures usually take from a few minutes to an hour and a half, depending on how large an area of skin is involved. It's not uncommon for the procedure to be performed more than once, or in stages, especially when scarring is deep or a large area of skin is involved.
In dermabrasion, the plastic surgeon sands and scrapes away the outermost layer of skin with a rough wire brush, or a burr containing diamond particles that is attached to a motorized handle. The scraping continues until the surgeon reaches the safest level that will make the scar or wrinkle less visible.
What to Expect After dermabrasion Surgery
Immediately following the procedure, your skin will be very red and swollen. Chewing and talking should be kept to a minimum. You may experience some tingling, burning, or aching; but any pain you feel can be controlled with elevation of the head and with medications prescribed by your surgeon. The swelling will begin to subside in a few days to a week.
Resuming Physical Activities
Most dermabrasion or dermaplaning patients require two weeks at home prior to returning to work or school. Even then, sometimes camouflage makeup is required to cover the redness. Recovering patients should avoid any activity that could result in contact with the face for at least two weeks. More active sports should be avoided for six weeks. Chlorinated swimming pool water and other harsh chemicals should be avoided for at least four weeks.
Above all, it's important to protect treated skin from the sun and wind until the pigment has completely returned to it. This process usually takes six months.
intake Forms
Looking Glass Intake Form
HIPAA Waiver Form
List of affiliated hospitals
Affiliated hospital's Intake Forms
|
