Overview

Dermabrasion is an aesthetic procedure using mechanical abrasion to remove the outer layers of skin for resurfacing.

Dermabrasion is crucial for treating acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, and improving overall skin texture.

Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Dermatology Course

Indications

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Acne Scars

Post-acne scarring

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Surgical Scars

Surgical scars

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Fine Lines

Wrinkles

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Sun Damage

Photoaging

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Uneven Skin Texture

Skin texture

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal
✗ Active infection

Relative Contraindications

✗ Pregnancy
✗ Recent sun exposure
✗ Dark skin types

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes patient assessment, skin evaluation, informed consent, and understanding dermabrasion techniques.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Skin Assessment

Evaluate skin type and condition.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong skin type
  • Inadequate assessment

💡 Pro Tip:

Use Fitzpatrick scale.

Step 2: Anesthesia

Administer local anesthesia.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate anesthesia
  • Wrong technique

💡 Pro Tip:

Ensure complete numbness.

Step 3: Abrasion Technique

Perform dermabrasion.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Too deep
  • Too shallow

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper technique.

Step 4: Depth Control

Control abrasion depth.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Excessive depth
  • Insufficient depth

💡 Pro Tip:

Monitor depth carefully.

Step 5: Post-treatment Care

Provide care instructions.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor instructions
  • Missed complications

💡 Pro Tip:

Give clear instructions.

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves wound care, sun protection, and monitoring for complications.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Erythema 40-60% Redness Time, cooling Proper technique
Hyperpigmentation 10-20% Dark patches Bleaching agents Sun protection
Hypopigmentation 5-15% Light patches Time, camouflage Proper technique
Scarring 2-5% Visible scar Time, scar care Proper technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Always assess skin type before treatment.

🎯

Use appropriate abrasion depth.

⚡

Monitor depth carefully.

🔍

Document treatment parameters.

📊

Provide sun protection instructions.

🎨

Consider patient expectations.

⚠️

Monitor for complications.