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Cosmetic Surgery -
Dermabrasion
Cosmetic Surgery - Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a process that is used to smooth fine wrinkles and scars left by spots or preceding surgery. It involves controlled surgical sanding that 'refinishes' the top layers of the skin to give a smoother appearance. Dermabrasion can be performed over the full surface of the face or on small areas and may be done in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift or face peel.
Like other resurfacing procedures, dermabrasion is not an appropriate treatment for some people. People with dark or freckled skin or those prone to skin reactions are advised to avoid this form of treatment.Dermabrasion is less commonly performed nowadays due to the rise of newer technologies, such as resurfacing lasers. However, in certain circumstances, it can be a valuable resurfacing technique.
Conditions treated by dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is used to treat a range of skin complaints including:
- Facial scars
- Scarring from prior surgery
- Wrinkles and frown lines
- Pre-cancerous skin growths
- Pigmentation
- Sun damage
- Tattoos
- Age (liver) spots
Other forms of treatment
Chemical peel is a similar technique to dermabrasion, but the skin layers are removed chemically instead of mechanically. A solution is wiped over the face, which is then left uncovered or masked with lotion or tape. The chemicals burn the skin and the healing process promotes new growth. Deep burns remove the most wrinkles, but also increase the risk of complications such as scarring and infection.
Resurfacing lasers and fractionated lasers have largely taken over from dermabrasion. Resurfacing laser also remove the outer layers of the skin, while the fractionated lasers do the same but leave some of the skin intact for more rapid healing.
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