Skin-smoothing surgery Health Article

Definition

Skin-smoothing surgery is the removal of the top layers of the skin. It is commonly called dermabrasion.

Alternative Names

Dermabrasion

Description

Dermabrasion is usually done while you are awake. You will receive local anesthesia. This means the doctor will numb the area to be worked on.

If you are having a complex procedures, your doctor may prescribe medicines to make you sleepy and less anxious (sedatives), or general anesthesia, which allows you to sleep through surgery and not feel any pain.

During dermabrasian, the doctor uses a special device to gently and carefully "sand" the surface of the skin down to normal, healthy skin. Petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointments is placed on the treated skin to reduce scab formation (crusting) and scaring.

Indications

Dermabrasion may be offered to patients with:

• Facial scars due to acne, accidents, or previous surgery
• Fine lines and wrinkles, such as around the mouth
• Precancerous growths (keratoses)

For many of these conditions, alternative treatments exist. Always discuss your options with your doctor.

Risks

The risks for any anesthesia are:

• Reactions to medications
• Infrequent but potentially severe heart or breathing problems

The risks for any surgery are:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring

Additional risks include permanent skin discoloration (either lighter, darker, or pinker).

Expectations after surgery

Your doctor will likely give you antibiotics 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 quite 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.

Swelling usually goes away within 2 - 3 weeks. New skin starts to itch as is 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.