Taking Off the Damaged Skin

Just as the roads around Paramus need resurfacing every time they begin to develop potholes and other imperfections, human skin can need the same. Just by different means!

Dermabrasion is an aggressive skin resurfacing procedure that removes the outer layers of skin. When new skin grows to replace the removed skin, it comes back smoother, younger looking, and free from the pockmarks and imperfections. Dr. Moskovitz uses dermabrasion to address a variety of skin problems.

What is dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is just as the word sounds. It abrades the top layer of the skin. To do that a tool with a rotating wire brush takes off the top layers of the skin. This wounds the skin, and as the wound heals new skin grows to replace the damaged skin that was removed during dermabrasion.

What can be treated with dermabrasion?

These are some of the skin conditions we treat with dermabrasion:

• Acne scarring
• Wrinkles
• Scars
• Chicken pox marks
• Age spots
• Uneven skin pigmentation
• Surface tattoos
• Precancerous skin patches

How is dermabrasion done?

Dr. Moskovitz performs dermabrasion in small sections. After cleaning and marking the treatment sites, the skin is then frozen with a cryogenic spray and a local anesthetic is applied. Dr. Moskovitz then uses the high-speed rotary instrument to remove the top layers of the skin in the area, applying freezing spray just seconds before applying the rotating brush.

After the layers are removed, an ointment and dressing is applied to protect the skin from infection and other complications.

Recovery time

Your recovery time depends on the size of the abraded area and the depth of the procedure. For instance, a person who has a full-face dermabrasion to address widespread acne scarring will face a longer recovery period than someone who has a small area treated to remove a single scar.

There will be initial oozing and crusting of the treatment sites. Ointment will probably be needed to keep things from drying out or scabbing. In general, skin regrows in five to eight days. The new skin is pink or red, but this will fade in six to 12 weeks. Avoiding any sun exposure is key, as the new skin is very vulnerable.

If you’re interested in getting rid of your acne scars or other skin issues, dermabrasion with the team at Image Plastic Surgery could be a good option. Call us at 201-225-1101 to make an appointment.