Chickenpox scars can be removed later in life.
Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure used to “touch up” the skin so that irregularities in the skin’s surface are removed. Dermabrasion is useful for removing acne and chickenpox scars, bumps on the face, precancerous growths called keratoses, and tattoos. It is also useful for reducing wrinkles and correcting pigmentation problems. Before completing any cosmetic surgery, make sure the doctor performing the procedure is board certified and experienced.
Dermabrasion can help reduce wrinkles.
Dermabrasion involves removing the top layers of dead skin with abrasive sandpaper using rotating wire brushes. It is usually done in a doctor’s office or on an outpatient basis. The doctor may recommend that the patient use an ointment, such as Retin-A, in the weeks leading up to the procedure. On the day of the procedure, the skin to be “restored” is frozen with freon spray.
Dermabrasion is sometimes used to remove acne scars.
Physicians may also replace a local anesthetic with sedatives or use general anesthesia alone to minimize any discomfort to the patient. Once frozen, the outer layer of skin is sanded away, revealing the new layer of skin cells. After the procedure, the skin may be tender and tingly with some burning and swelling. The swelling usually goes away after about a week and the recovery time is about 10 days.
During the recovery period, patients are advised not to wear makeup, avoid outdoor ball sports, and avoid sun exposure as this may cause abnormal scarring or pigmentation problems. If the skin becomes red, itchy, or abnormally scarred during the healing process, it is recommended that the patient call a doctor to correct the problems.
Anyone can get a dermabrasion, and money is the only deterrent to having the procedure. Although youth and vitality are the motivating factors for performing the surgery, the patient’s history must be taken into account when discussing possible side effects that may accompany the procedure.
The results depend on the person’s skin type, color, and medical history. People seeking surgery who are of African American or Asian descent and have darkly pigmented skin are at risk for pigmentation irregularities. Also, it’s helpful to remember that older people heal more slowly, so an older person seeking a dermabrasion may be at risk of infection and other complications.
The most significant risks associated with dermabrasion include allergies, infections in the area of the face to be restored. Skin sensitivity after the procedure can predispose an allergic person to increased breakouts. Pigmentation problems are also common with too much sun exposure immediately after the procedure. There may be excess scar tissue formation, but this can be resolved with a steroid injection. Enlarged pores on the skin can also occur, but they tend to disappear as the skin begins to heal.
Dermabrasion, compared to chemical peels, seems to be an effective method to remove these unsightly scars, to reduce wrinkles and the appearance of skin lesions. Caution dictates that a person interview the doctor so that the patient can properly understand the potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure. Choosing a licensed physician with experience and attention to the patient’s medical history will go a long way in preventing surgical errors and the consequent harm that can occur.