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Facial Dermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that "polishes" and renews your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Your skin is the largest organ in your body; therefore, preserving its health is just as important as caring for the rest of your body. The main advantages of microdermabrasion over other treatments include minimal recovery time that will allow you to return to your regular activities without delay and an immediately noticeable improvement in your skin's appearance.

The procedure is ideal for treating skin conditions related to sun damage, acne scars, age spots, fine lines and uneven surface texture. Microdermabrasion removes the outermost layer of dry, dead skin cells revealing a fresher, younger looking face.

Microdermabrasion is a progressive treatment method, which means you'll gradually obtain the results you want through a series of procedures done over time. This frees you from the burden of having one drastic procedure that requires several months to fully recover.

• How is a facial dermabrasion performed?
• How long does a facial dermabrasion take?
• What type of anesthesia is used?
• Where is the procedure performed?
• When can I return home and resume normal activities?
• How do I prepare for a facial dermabrasion?
• What precautions are necessary during recovery?
• What the possible complication after a facial dermabrasion?
• What results can I expect after a facial dermabrasion?
• Choosing the right surgeon

How is a facial dermabrasion performed?

During microdermabrasion procedures, your surgeon will use a precision hand piece to glide fine crystals at a high speed across your skin to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells from any part of your body. The crystals are simultaneously vacuumed back through a tubing system along with the old skin cells. Microdermabrasion gently "sandblasts" away fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, sun damaged skin and age spots.

How long does a facial dermabrasion take?

Microdermabrasion procedures normally take 10 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the area treated. More complex procedures, such as treating stretch marks can take up to two hours.

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What type of anesthesia is used?

Microdermabrasion is a fairly simple procedure that requires no anesthesia.

Where is the procedure performed?

Microdermabrasion is usually performed on an outpatient basis, in the surgeon's office-based surgical suite.

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When can I return home and resume normal activities?

You may return home immediately after your procedure. You may also resume normal activities, including driving, following microdermabrasion treatments.

How do I prepare for a facial dermabrasion?

During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss the changes that you would like to make to your appearance. Since the appearance of your skin is a matter of personal perception and preference, you will need to discuss your concerns in detail so your surgeon can determine the appropriate alternatives. Your surgeon will evaluate and assess your skin and it's condition. Knowledge of your allergies, medications and previous surgeries should be brought to your surgeon's attention at this time. Your surgeon may also recommend skin care programs and nutritional guidelines that can enhance the results of your procedure. Your experience will be much smoother if you remain compliant with your surgeon's instructions.

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What precautions are necessary during recovery?

Many patients only experience a slight flushing in their skin that lasts about a day. You may experience a slight dryness in your skin shortly after your procedure. If necessary, your surgeon will recommend a moisturizer that will decrease the amount of dryness. You may be advised to avoid wearing make-up for the first day to allow your skin to "breathe" and rejuvenate itself. Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun after your treatment, so you will need to protect it by wearing sun block lotions. Your surgeon may have other specific post-treatment instructions to follow that are unique to your individual skin condition.

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What the possible complication after a facial dermabrasion?

The potential risks from microdermabrasion treatments are rare. They include increased sensitivity to the sun, redness, dryness of the skin, bruising and flaking. It is always important to be informed about the possible complications before any procedure. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your surgeon.

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What results can I expect after a facial dermabrasion?

Immediately after your procedure your skin will have a pink, flushed appearance that will quickly lesson with each passing day. You will notice an immediate improvement in the texture, smoothness and freshness of your skin. Age spots, freckles, fine lines and wrinkles will be greatly reduced, and acne scars will be less noticeable. Getting the best results with microdermabrasion will usually require about 2 - 12 treatments with each procedure spaced about two weeks apart. Your individual goals and skin condition will enable your physician to develop a treatment schedule that is best for you.

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