Dermabrasion Procedure in
Central Texas
Patients who have fine lines around the mouth or a facial scar may benefit from a skin resurfacing technique known as dermabrasion. By removing superficial layers of the epidermis, this procedure encourages collagen growth to create smoother skin.
At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, Dr. Charles Guy and his team specialize in plastic surgery services from the collarbone up. With extensive experience in dermabrasion, Dr. Guy treats patients throughout Central Texas. Learn more about dermabrasion and what to expect during and after the procedure.
What Is Dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a non-surgical procedure that resurfaces the skin using a rotating burr, akin to sanding. This procedure most often is recommended for scar revision, to reduce the appearance of fine lines, or as a treatment for rhinophyma, a disorder that causes the nose to appear red, bumpy, and bulbous.
The fine lines around the mouth, sometimes referred to as bar codes, develop over time. They’re especially prevalent in patients who smoke or always use a straw to drink, but fine lines can be genetic, as well. These vertical lines around the mouth can be difficult to treat with fillers and often respond best to a resurfacing procedure.
By mechanically removing the outer layers of skin, dermabrasion stimulates collagen growth. This tightens up the area and improves the look of fine lines. Dermabrasion also can blend the borders of a facial scar that does not have a smooth transition to the surrounding skin. The procedure makes the scar less noticeable.
Dermabrasion also can benefit patients with rhinophyma. Rhinophyma often is caused by rosacea and makes the nose red, bumpy, and enlarged. Dermabrasion debulks the excess tissue, revealing the more natural contours of the nose.
Benefits of Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment that can:
Dermabrasion is an option for people of all ages, but older patients may need more time to heal. Patients with active acne shouldn’t get dermabrasion, as it can increase the risk of infection. And patients who are prone to cold sores or skin rashes may notice flare-ups after the procedure.
What to Expect With
Dermabrasion
Patients undergoing dermabrasion or skin resurfacing around the mouth will begin taking an oral antiviral medication two days before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
Dermabrasion typically is performed in the operating room. In some cases, Dr. Guy will perform dermabrasion in the office after making the area numb with an injection of a local anesthetic.
After the procedure, there will be erythema (redness) in the area that eventually will turn pink and then return to its normal skin color. Occasionally, the treated area is lighter than the surrounding skin after it has healed completely. Swelling and itchiness in the treated area will improve with time as the skin heals. The skin may feel tight at first but usually softens over the weeks or months after the procedure.
What to Do After Dermabrasion
After a dermabrasion procedure, it’s important to keep the skin moist. Use a thin layer of Aquaphor at all times for 10 to 14 days. You can shower as normal afterward; letting the water run down the treated area will help with healing. However, do not use makeup for at least two weeks – this can inhibit the skin’s natural healing processes. Avoid being in the sun. Beginning two weeks after the procedure, you can switch from using Aquaphor to wearing a facial moisturizer with sunscreen.
Restrictions
After dermabrasion, the treated area is very sensitive. Take these steps to protect the skin:
Supplies
We recommend purchasing these supplies before a dermabrasion procedure:
When To Call The Office
Patients who have dermabrasion should contact Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas if they experience any of the following:
Our staff is happy to address any patient questions or concerns.
Choose Facial Plastic Surgery of
Central Texas
Located in Waco, TX, Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas offers advanced cosmetic surgery care. Serving patients throughout central Texas, Dr. Guy takes the time to explain procedures thoroughly and make his patients feel comfortable. Instead of traveling to Austin or Dallas, patients can receive state-of-the-art treatments close to home. In addition to dermabrasion, Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas offers procedures including:
For more information about our professional plastic surgery services, contact us today