Dr. James Barber - Cosmetic Surgery Blog

Using a machine made for the purpose (similar to a small sandblaster), the doctor basically scrubs, or polishes, the top layer of skin off of the treatment area. This trauma, which is minute and typically causes litter or no pain, stimulates cell growth replacing the skin that was scrubbed away. No anesthesia is necessary and sessions can usually be done over your lunch hour.

Several short (thirty minute) sessions are conducted approximately 2 to 3 weeks apart. Depending on the location and nature of the problem, it may take from 5 to 12 sessions to achieve the best effect. After each session your skin may feel tight and dry for about 24 hours. There is usually no pain associated with treatment.

After a short recovery time, your skin appears brand new as the fresh layer of skin rises to the top surface. Microdermabrasion can also be used to help reduce scarring from acne, minor wrinkles, ages spots, or other blemishes that appear as your skin ages.

Your physician or clinic should have some before and after photographs of past procedures that you can look at to help you determine if microdermabrasion is right for you, or whether an alternative treatment, such as an Obagi Blue Peel or Laser Skin Resurfacing might achieve better results in your case.