About the Procedure

Although each procedure varies, generally, dermabrasion and dermaplaning surgeries follow this process:

Location options may include:

• Surgeon's office-based surgical facility
• Outpatient surgery center
• Hospital outpatient
• Hospital inpatient

Anesthetic options may include:

• Local anesthesia, combined with a sedative (allows the patient to remain awake but relaxed)
• A numbing spray, such a freon, may be used along with or instead of local anesthesia
• General anesthesia

Average length of procedure:

• From a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the size of the area of skin to be refinished. The procedure may be performed more than once, or in stages.

Some possible short-term side effects of surgery:

• The skin may be red and swollen.
• Eating and talking may be difficult for a few days following the procedure.
• Tingling, burning, or aching may occur.
• Swelling and scabbing may occur.

As the new skin begins to grow, it may appear and feel swollen. The skin may also be sensitive and bright pink in color, which may take about three months to fade. Protection from the sun is very important following this type of procedure.