The effects of dermabrasion are similar to what can be achieved with other skin resurfacing methods, with a few important differences. Laser resurfacing and chemical peels also achieve rejuvenation of the skin, and you are encouraged to read about those alternative procedures as well. Laser resurfacing involves the application of laser energy and the generation of heat. This technique is generally the most expensive of the three options.

Chemical peels involve the application of dilute acids to the skin to cause exfoliation of the damaged, outer layers. Chemical peels are generally the least expensive of the three methods.

Dermabrasion, rather than using laser energy or dilute acids, is entirely mechanical in its mechanism of action. A small, rough, spinning wheel is applied to the skin by Dr. Chaudhari in careful strokes under magnification. Exactly the appropriate amount of damaged skin may be removed under Dr. Chaudhari' careful control. Dermabrasion is particularly useful for deep wrinkles around the mouth that may cause lipstick to bleed and for acne scars and pits.

Following dermabrasion, the healing process begins immediately and is completed by seven to ten days. Your new skin will be more soft and supple, will appear more youthful, and will have fewer wrinkles and discolorations.

If you think you might be a good candidate for dermabrasion or other skin rejuvenation technique, this page will give you a basic understanding of the procedure and the results you can expect. However, Dr. Chaudhari feels it is extremely important to individualize treatment to your specific circumstances and goals, therefore it is recommended that you visit our office for a complimentary consultation. You are also invited to email Dr. Chaudhari with your questions, or we will mail you more detailed information regarding the procedure.

The Consultation

During your initial consultation, Dr. Chaudhari will inquire about your medical history, prior procedures, medications, allergies, and your motivations for seeking cosmetic surgery. It is very important that you be thorough when providing your medical history, as this information helps to prevent complications during your care. When asked about medications, be sure to include any vitamin or herbal preparations, as these can affect your blood pressure and clotting ability. Honesty regarding your use of tobacco and alcohol is also very important, as these may have a profound impact on your recovery period and your ability to heal following your procedure.

If you have a history of cold sores or Herpes simplex infection, it is extremely important to inform Dr. Chaudhari. Facial resurfacing by any method increases your risk of a cold sore outbreak. Dr. Chaudhari will give you a short course of antiviral medication to prevent an outbreak if you have such a history.

After reviewing your medical history, Dr. Chaudhari will discuss your concerns, priorities and motivations for pursuing cosmetic surgery, as well as your fears. After examining you, Dr. Chaudhari will be able to offer advice and options to help you achieve the appearance you desire. He will explain the advantages and disadvantages of the different options you have before you.

At the completion of your consultation, Suzanne, our Patient Coordinator, will give you a written estimate of the cost of your procedure. At this time, you will also have the option to schedule your procedure if you so choose. The decision to undergo a procedure is a very important one, and the final decision should be given very careful consideration. Dr. Chaudhari realizes the importance of this decision, and at no time will you be pressured to make a decision. You are also encouraged to bring your spouse, significant other, family member, or a friend to your consultation.

Where Your Procedure Will Be Performed
Dr. Chaudhari may perform your dermabrasion in his office, or he may choose to perform your procedure at a local hospital or outpatient facility. Dr. Chaudhari has been granted staff privileges at seven local hospitals and outpatient surgery centers.

Type(s) of Anesthesia

Anesthesia is an essential part of any surgical procedure and must be performed safely and effectively. Most dermabrasion is performed with local anesthetics injected by Dr. Chaudhari to make the area to be treated numb. He may also give you an oral sedative to help you relax during the procedure

Dr. Chaudhari will discuss these options with you more thoroughly at the time of your consultation, and please ask him about anything you do not understand.

Details of the Procedure

You should thoroughly cleanse your face with a nonresidue soap on the evening before and morning of the procedure. Dr. Chaudhari will instruct you not to wear makeup, sunscreen, or any other product on your face the morning of your procedure, because these must be removed prior to the procedure being performed.

After you are appropriately anesthetized, Dr. Chaudhari will apply the dermabrasion hand piece in careful strokes to remove the desired amount of damaged skin. Afterwards, Dr. Chaudhari will apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to encourage healing.

Dermabrasion Machine	Dermabrasion Handle	Diamond-Encrusted Dermabrader Tip

After Your Procedure

Dermabrasion is performed as an outpatient procedure. You will be able to go home in the company of a friend or family member following your procedure.

You should plan to take it easy following your procedure. No strenuous activities, heavy lifting (over 20 pounds), aerobic exercises, swimming, contact sports, tennis, or golf should be planned for the first two weeks. These activities may cause you to develop hyperpigmentation, or discoloration of the treated area.

You should also avoid direct sun exposure during the initial healing period of seven to ten days. During this period, keep the treated area moist by frequently applying the ointment as directed by Dr. Chaudhari. This encourages moist wound healing and will prevent scab or crust formation that could lead to scarring. You will be allowed to shower and gently wash your face with nonresidue soap, using fingertips only, during the first week following your procedure. After showering, you may pat your face dry and apply a new coating of ointment.

As Dr. Chaudhari monitors your recovery, he will advise you when it is safe to resume specific activities.

The Results You Can Expect

You should be able to resume your normal daily activities the day after your procedure, and you should be able to resume all of your physical activities within two weeks of your procedure. After the first few days, you will notice that the treated area is more smooth with less wrinkles, having a more youthful appearance. Your newly rejuvenated skin should last you for years.