Dermabrasion is a procedure to smooth the outermost layer of skin in order to promote new skin growth and improve appearance. Dermabrasion is done by a dermatologic or plastic surgeon using a dermatone, a handheld instrument with a swirling wire brush, that scrapes away skin irregularities such as acne scars.
A local anesthetic and sedative are usually given before the procedure, although general anesthesia is sometimes used. A numbing spray may be used along with, or in place of, a local anesthetic. Dermabrasion is often done in stages, treating parts of the face at different times.
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated: May 25, 2007 | |
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