Dermabrasion or Facial Sanding

Dermabrasion or facial sanding is particularly effective in smoothing fine or deep wrinkles of the skin on the face. Facial sanding is also relied on to remove or reduce skin irregularities and to correct uneven skin surfaces resulting from scarring or acne.

Dermabrasion is usually done on an outpatient basis under local sedation and local or general anesthesia. The procedure involves using a tool with a small, rapidly spinning end, which has a roughened surface that removes inconsistencies of the skin. After the procedure, the patient goes home with the treated area covered with medicated ointment or a protective membrane.

Facial sanding is relatively painless, and side effects are controlled easily with oral medication. The treated skin is usually “healed” within 5-7 days, at which time makeup may be applied. The redness of the skin fades gradually over a 2-3 month period.

Additional plastic surgery procedures that may enhance dermabrasion results are scar revision and dermabrasion of the upper and lower lips.

For more information on dermabrasion in San Francisco and the Bay area, contact Dr. Kimberly A. Henry’s offices in Davis, Greenbrae, and Petaluma.