.--Microdermabrasion

Consultation  Procedure  Risks  Follow-up Visits


Background On Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technology that his been available in Europe for decades but for only several years in this country. It is a non-surgical, non-chemical, non-invasive method of skin resurfacing. The technique involves blasting fine aluminum oxide microparticles at the skin along with suction to "sand" the surface of the skin. This gentle skin blasting causes the top dead layers of skin to be removed.

Microdermabrasion will improve fine lines, moderate wrinkles, pigmentation problems and uneven tones with the overall effect of improving the quality and texture of the skin. Men, women and teens of all skin types are candidates for this procedure. For maximum benefit from microdermabrasion, a minimum of 6 to 8 treatments is recommended from 4 to 6 weeks apart.


Microdermabrasion  Consultation
At your initial visit with Dr. Capella, he will perform a directed physical examination and take a medical history with attention to current medications, previous plastic surgery and skin care regimen. He will examine you in front of the mirror and discuss your skin concerns. In cases where Dr. Capella feels that other modalities such laser resurfacing, Botox, collagen, glycolic acid peels or surgery may be more beneficial, he may make these suggestions. Dr. Capella will describe the technique to you along with its risks, benefits and hopeful outcomes. Photographs will be taken of the areas to be treated so that your skin appearance can be compared following the procedures.

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Microdermabrasion  Procedure
Prior to treatment, the areas to be treated will be cleansed with a degreasing agent. You will be in a comfortable, semireclined position. Dr. Capella will begin passing the handpiece of the microdermabrasion machine over the skin to be treated. A full face treatment takes from 20 to 30 minutes. Patients experience minimal discomfort and equate the sensation to having a "Brillo" pad passed gently over the skin. Following the procedure, you will have some residual particles that will be brushed off. Mineral water will be sprayed onto you face to refresh the skin. Dr. Capella will recommend that you refrain from using retinoic acid for 72 hours following the procedure. Dr. Capella will supply you with a moisturizer to be used for 48 hours and will suggest that you apply a broad-spectrum sunblock with a minimum SPF of 30. You may return to your normal daily responsibilities immediate after the procedure.

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Risks Associated With Microdermabrasion
Risks associated with microdermabrasion are few and minor. Patients may experience slight redness of the skin from _ hour to one day following the procedure. It is suggested that individuals with cold sores, eczema, open lesions, infections, rosacea and Accutane users not have dermabrasion performed. In general, chemical exfoliants such as gylcolic acid should not be used concomitantly with microdermabrasion as this may be too aggressive and lead to scarring.

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Microdermabrasion  Follow-up Visits
Dr. Capella will monitor your progress closely at each treatment. It is likely that with each session, as you get acclimated, Dr. Capella will increase the settings of the machine, allowing for deeper penetration. Photographs will be taken approximately 6 to 8 months following the initial procedure to assess you progress.

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Next: Laser Skin resurfacing