Dermabrasion: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Dermabrasion?
A plastic surgeon or a dermatologic surgeon usually performs dermabrasion. The procedure takes place in your doctor's office or an outpatient clinic. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Dermabrasion is the removal of the top layers of the skin. It is a type of skin-smoothing surgery. Another name for it is skin planing.
A special device is used to gently and carefully sand the top surface of the skin down to normal, healthy skin. Petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment is placed on the treated skin to prevent scabs and scars from forming.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Dermabrasion may be helpful if you have any of these.
- Age-related skin growths
- Fine lines and wrinkles, such as around the mouth
- Precancerous growths
- Scars on the face from acne, accidents, or previous surgery
- Sun damage and photo-aging
For many of these problems, other treatments can be done, such as laser or chemical peels, or medicine injected into the skin. Talk to your health care provider about treatment options for your skin problem.
How to prepare
If you have had cold sores (herpes) before, your doctor may give you antiviral medicine to prevent an outbreak. People with dark skin are at greater risk of having dark patches of skin after the procedure.
What happens during it
You will likely be awake. A numbing medicine, called local anesthesia, is applied to the skin that will be treated. If you are having a complex procedure, you may be given medicines called sedatives to make you sleepy and less anxious. Another option is general anesthesia, which allows you to sleep through surgery and not feel any pain during the procedure.
The skin may be treated with ointment and a wet or waxy dressing.
Recovery
After the procedure, your skin will be red and swollen. Swelling usually goes away within 2 to 3 weeks. You may feel aching, tingling, or burning for a while. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to help control pain.
The new layer of skin will be a little swollen, sensitive, itchy, and bright pink for several weeks. If you had freckles, they may temporarily disappear.
- Most people can go back to normal activities in about 2 weeks.
- Avoid any activity that could cause injury to the treated area.
- Avoid sports that involve balls, such as baseball, for 4 to 6 weeks.
- For about 3 weeks, your skin will turn red when you drink alcohol.
- Protect your skin from the sun until your skin color has returned to normal.
You can wear hypoallergenic make-up to hide any changes in skin color.
Risks and side effects
Anesthesia and surgery in general can cause reactions to medicines and breathing problems. They can also cause bleeding, blood clots, and infection. Risks of dermabrasion include lasting skin color changes, with the skin staying lighter, darker, or pinker. Scars are also a risk.
If your skin remains red and swollen after healing has started, it may be a sign that abnormal scars are forming. Tell your doctor if this happens. Treatment may be available.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
Dermabrasion is usually done by a doctor, either a plastic surgeon or a dermatologic surgeon. Your doctor's office or an outpatient clinic is where it takes place.
Common questions
How long does it take to heal after dermabrasion?
Most people can go back to normal activities in about 2 weeks. Healing time depends on the extent of dermabrasion and size of treatment area.
Will I be awake during dermabrasion?
You will likely be awake. A numbing medicine is applied to the skin that will be treated. For a complex procedure, you may be given sedatives or general anesthesia.
Can dermabrasion change my skin color?
Yes, lasting skin color changes are a risk of dermabrasion. People with dark skin are at greater risk of having dark patches of skin after the procedure. New skin should closely match the surrounding skin when full color returns.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
