Microdermabrasion
What is it?For who?
The surgery
The risks
The costs
Microdermabrasion is a skin-freshening technique that helps repair facial skin that takes a beating from the sun and the effects of aging. It is a quick non-invasive procedure used to resurface the skin. This relatively new procedure gently removes only the very top layers of damaged skin by sand blasting them with tiny crystals. The technique exfoliates and gently resurfaces the skin, promoting the formation of new smoother, clearer skin. It is usually performed on the face and neck, but can be performed on any part of the body, such as the backs of the hands.
Microdermabrasion can correct rough skin texture, some types of scarring, uneven pigmentation, and age (liver) spots. It can also remove or improve whiteheads and black heads, some stretch marks, and fine wrinkles. By removing superficial layers of the skin, microdermabrasion allows new skin to appear. In fact, this procedure even stimulates the growth of new skin cells. Microdermabrasion can be used for all skin types and skin tones. For best results, it can be repeated as often as once a week.
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Microdermabrasion can be performed on people who want to have fine wrinkles or unwanted pigmentation removed. Furthermore it improves the skin texture and gives the appearance of refreshed-looking skin.
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At the initial consultation the patient should discuss the changes he or she would like to make. The doctor should explain the different options available, the procedure itself, its risks and limitations.
The patient may have to stop using products that contain aspirin or other medications. Also the patient should stop smoking to improve the circulation of blood to the skin. Sometimes the surgeon may want the patient to take an anti-viral medication in order to prevent cold sores or fever blisters from appearing after the procedure.
During the operation goggles are placed over the eyes to protect them, and the skin is cleansed. The doctor then removes the surface skin using a delicate, handheld device similar to a dentists polishing instrument. Through this device, tiny crystals are sprayed on the skin and suctioned back up into the machine, along with loosened skin. The doctor can vary the pressure to control the amount of penetration, or pass over an area several times to remove the most damaged skin.
The procedure generally lasts from 15 to 30 minutes. It is often necessary to repeat the procedure to achieve the desired results. A typical regimen consists of four to eight treatments, at intervals of one to three weeks. The procedure is most often performed in the doctors own office.
Some people report some mild irritation but most people report no pain at all. In fact, many people actually describe the tingling sensation in positive terms. Anesthesia is not necessary.
Immediately after the procedure, women can apply makeup and return to their normal activities. The skin will turn pink immediately afterward, but this color will fade within a few hours.
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The procedure does not involve any serious, known risks. Some patients with very sensitive skin may experience some irritation. The patient should discuss this possibility with the doctor if he or she is concerned about the effects of this treatment on sensitive skin.
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Microdermabrasion will cost around $180, but keep in mind that fees vary from one geographic location to another.
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Botox Injections , Breast Augmentation , Breast Lift , Breast Reduction , Cheek Surgery , Chemical Peel , Chin Surgery , Dermabrasion , Ear Surgery , Eyelid Surgery , Facelift , Forehead Lift or Brow Lift , Hair Replacement , Injectable Fillers , Laser Hair Removal , Laser Skin Resurfacing , Lip Augmentation , Liposuction , Microdermabrasion , Nose Surgery , Penis Enlargement , Permanent Eyeliner , Spider Veins , Thigh Lift , Tummy Tuck , Upper Arm Lift ,back to top
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Alabama (AL) 