Dermabrasion

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Dermabrasion is the removal of the top layers of the skin. It is a type of skin smoothing surgery.

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.

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Dermabrasion may be helpful if you have:

• Age-related skin growths (seborrheic keratoses)
• Fine lines and wrinkles, such as around the mouth
• Precancerous growths (keratoses)
• Scars on the face due to acne, accidents, or previous surgery

Alternative treatments such as laser or chemical peels exist for many of these conditions. Always discuss your options with your health care provider.

Your doctor will likely give you antiviral medication to prevent severe cold sores from forming.

The skin may be treated with ointment and a wet or waxy dressing. After surgery, your skin will be red and swollen. Eating and talking may be difficult. You may have some aching, tingling, or burning for a while after surgery. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to help control any pain. Your doctor may have you return for dressing changes in the days after the procedure.

Swelling usually goes away within 2 - 3 weeks. New skin starts to itch as it grows. If you had freckles, they may temporarily disappear.

You may have enlarged pores or whiteheads after the skin-smoothing surgery, but they eventually go away.

If the treated skin remains red and swollen after healing has started, this may be a sign that abnormal scars are beginning to form. Talk to your doctor. Treatment may be available.