The skin endures a lot as it is exposed to the elements and is greatly impacted by changes in structure that occur with age. The face remains of particular concern because it is not protected by clothing and is the most visible part of the body. Dry, wrinkled, and discolored skin can detract from a youthful look and may even cause a person to appear unhealthy. Several skin conditions that affect the face, including the presence of raised scars, can make the sufferer feel uneasy in social situations.
To improve the appearance and texture of the skin, as well as re-build confidence that has been lowered by skin imperfections, dermabrasion is an effective treatment. The procedure is a mode of skin resurfacing often used for the correction of raised and uneven scarring. The appearance of scars, such as those caused by acne, injuries, or surgery, is dramatically improved afterwards. Acne scars are the most commonly treated; however, most scars can be treated if they are not too deep.
Dermabrasion can be utilized either as an independent approach or as a complement to surgical scar revision. The skin resurfacing procedure is also used for other purposes, including age spots, sun-damage, uneven skin tone, fine wrinkles, tattoos, and precancerous skin patches.
Ideal candidates for dermabrasion have light colored skin because the procedure can result in a lightening of the skin known as hypopigmentation. Patients with darker skin may not be candidates, but could benefit from medical roll CIT. Other patients who are often advised against dermabrasion include those that have a history of scar tissue overgrowth, a current case of acne, burn scars, or who have certain skin or immune disorder conditions. A qualified plastic surgeon can help you to determine if dermabrasion is right for you.
The Dermabrasion Procedure
Dermabrasion is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia. Two weeks prior to the procedure date, patients are asked to apply a topical cream every day to the area that will be treated. This will prepare the site. The actual procedure only takes about 15 minutes to complete, although it may be combined with other longer surgical procedures. A device with a rapidly rotating abrasive wheel sands the outer layer of skin, which will reveal the smoother and healthier layers beneath.
Following Dermabrasion
The skin will turn from red to a lighter pink during the first five days following dermabrasion. Normal skin color will gradually return over about three months. A smoother skin texture is noticeable after one week to 10 days.
Taking care of the treated skin and following some simple directions will help to improve results and keep patients comfortable. The recovery is not painful, but resulting discomfort can be controlled with Tylenol, or a pain medication prescribed by the physician. Antibiotic cream applied twice daily will keep the area moisturized and safe from infection.
Other recommendations include minimizing activity during the remainder of the day and evening following dermabrasion. When resting or sleeping, a head elevated with extra pillows will reduce swelling. Applying a bag of frozen peas for 10 minutes every hour during the first two days will also help minimize swelling.
Every procedure has risks that are attributed to it, and dermabrasion is not an exception. Most complications are extremely rare, but it is important that patients are aware of them. They include bleeding and infection, as well as further scarring and pigmentation issues. If bleeding does occur, it can typically be controlled by applying light pressure. You should contact your physician if you experience any of these problems.
Alternatives for Darker Skin
Medical roll CIT (collagen induction therapy) uses a small device that is rolled over the skin. It is an effective procedure when targeting acne scars. Treatment is received under local anesthesia or IV sedation. By rolling the tool over the skin, collagen production deposition and tissue regeneration is encouraged. The depressions left with the formation of acne scars are permanently filled in as the new collagen naturally grows. Because a layer of skin is not being removed, there is no risk of changes in pigmentation.
