Microdermabrasion

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Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is one of the
most popular non-invasive
cosmetic procedures performed
today. Over time, factors such as
aging, genetic factors, sun
damage, acne, scarring, and
enlarged pores can contribute to
the formation of facial wrinkles and
a rough skin texture on the face.
Most commonly used to treat the
face and neck,
microderrmabrasion can
successfully reduce the
appearance of superficial wrinkles
and scars, large pores, acne, and
age spots, restoring a smoother,
more youthful appearance.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660
www.bodysculptor.com
Microdermabrasion Introduction
Microdermabrasion is one of the most popular non-invasive
cosmetic procedures performed today. Over time, factors such as
aging, genetic factors, sun damage, acne, scarring, and enlarged
pores can contribute to the formation of facial wrinkles and a rough
skin texture on the face. Most commonly used to treat the face and
neck, microderrmabrasion can successfully reduce the
appearance of superficial wrinkles and scars, large pores, acne,
and age spots, restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Overview of the Skin
Before you learn how microdermabrasion can rejuvenate your
skin, you need to understand what makes up your skin. Your skin
consists of two layers known as the epidermis and the dermis. The
epidermis, or outer layer of the skin, acts as the skin's primary
defense against the environment, and sustains the most damage
from the sun. The effects of sun damage are what cause the skin
to have a rough appearance. Beneath the epidermis lies the
dermis, or innermost layer of the skin, which provides structure
and support.
What Causes Skin Damage?
The dermis is comprised primarily of connective tissue, which is
made mostly of collagen and elastin fibers. These fibers form a
network that provides the skin with structure, support, and
elasticity. Over time, the aging process and sun damage cause a
decrease in the amount of collagen and elastin fibers. As this
network of fibers breaks down, the skin loses its elasticity and
becomes more lax.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660
www.bodysculptor.com
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
During microdermabrasion, fine crystals usually remove the
superficial or uppermost layer of the epidermis, known as the
stratum corneum. Depending on the extent of skin damage,
deeper treatment may be necessary; however, treatment rarely
extends beyond the epidermis. As a result, microdermabrasion is
not appropriate for the treatment of deeper wrinkles and scars, or
extensive discoloration as these conditions likely extend into the
dermis. In these instances chemical peels and laser resurfacing
may achieve more desirable results. As microdermabrasion only
causes superficial injury to the skin, the risk of scarring and
pigmentation anomalies following microdermabrasion is extremely
low, when compared with other resurfacing techniques. Therefore,
microdermabrasion can be safely and effectively used on
individuals of all skin types.
Procedure Preparation
A microdermabrasion procedure may last approximately thirty to
forty-five minutes. Unlike certain chemical peels and laser
resurfacing, the procedure is relatively painless; therefore,
anesthesia is not typically required. Prior to your procedure, your
physician may recommend that you treat your skin with products
containing alphahydroxy acid or retinoic acid, among others, which
may increase the effects and longevity of your treatment. Before
the treatment, your face will be thoroughly cleansed, usually using
an alcohol-based cleanser. Your physician may also provide you
with goggles to protect your eyes during the procedure.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660
www.bodysculptor.com
Microdermabrasion Procedure - Part I
During the procedure, the physician uses a device which emits
pressurized crystals onto the surface of the skin. Using single
strokes, the physician will guide the device over the treatment area
to remove damaged skin layers.
Microdermabrasion Procedure - Part II
The hand piece releases fine, pressurized crystals, which much
like sandblasting exfoliate the stratum corneum, or the skin's
outermost layer. In areas with more damage, the physician may
increase the amount of pressure exerted by the device or the
number of passes made in the area. This will cause the treatment,
or amount of injury, to extend deeper into the skin. A vacuum
sucks the used crystals and exfoliated skin particles back into the
device, so that they can be removed and discarded.
Microdermabrasion Recovery
Following your microdermabrasion procedure, you may experience
some redness for the first few hours, but you will be able to return
to your normal routine immediately after your treatment. Your
physician may apply a cream or ointment to the treatment areas to
keep them moist as they heal. It is important that you continue to
use these products as directed by your physician, as your skin
may continue to exfoliate following the procedure. Your skin may
appear as if you have a minor sunburn for two to three days and
will be more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, it is important that you
use sunscreen with SPF 15 or greater as your skin heals.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660
www.bodysculptor.com
Microdermabrasion Results
As the new skin cells are revealed, your skin will have an improved
texture and overall appearance. It is important to realize that in
order to maintain the results from a microdermabrasion procedure,
you will likely have to undergo approximately five to ten
treatments, depending on the severity of skin damage. Initially, you
may receive treatments every one to two weeks. However, over
time the frequency of treatment may decrease to once a month,
and later to twice a year. Although multiple treatments are
required, microdermabrasion is a simple, fast, effective method of
reducing superficial skin damage to restore a refreshed and
youthful appearance.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660
www.bodysculptor.com
QUESTIONS FOR YOUR DOCTOR
1.
What guidelines should I follow prior to my procedure?
2.
How long will the procedure last?
3.
Will I be given medication after the procedure? What tips do you have for me to ease
discomfort?
4.
How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my
recovery? Are there special instructions for eating, sleeping, or bathing?
5.
When can I return to work, resume normal activity, drive, and exercise?
6.
Are there any health and beauty aids that you recommend I should use or avoid (sunscreen,
anti-scar remedies)?
7.
Will I need to come back for appointments after the procedure?
8.
Is there anything else I should know?
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to represent actual surgical technique or results. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis,
treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional when you have a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking advice if you have read something in
this printout. Copyright © 2013, Understand.com, LLC, All Rights Reserved.
Otto J. Placik, MD • 880 W. Central Road • Suite 3100 • Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005 • 847-398-1660