Microdermabrasion in New Orleans, LA

Microdermabrasion removes the superficial layer of dry dead skin cells which softens the appearance of fine lines and brightens skin tone. This treatment buffs and polishes the skin using a diamond -tipped wand.

Our Metairie and New Orleans cosmetic surgery practices offer microdermabrasion for patients seeking a rejuvenated skin appearance. Microdermabrasion is a proven technique to remove the upper layer of skin, revealing the fresher, more vibrant skin underneath. It can be a useful alternative to Fraxel^® laser skin resurfacing when extensive skin damage needs to be corrected. In addition to fading age spots and freckles, microdermabrasion can lessen the prominence of old scars and soften the look of wrinkles. The treatment is performed under local anesthetic and involves little to no discomfort. After microdermabrasion, patients may experience redness, swelling, and burning. These effects are temporary and may be managed by taking a prescription pain reliever. Patients are usually able to return to work within a few days, although any activities involving contact with the sensitive skin should be avoided until the skin heals.

Microdermabrasion treatment can go as deep as the dermis depending on the extent of the skin irregularity being treated. During the procedure, the skin is prepared with cryogenic spray, a cooling substance that freezes the skin. This allows the skin to be firm and makes the burring process easier. The skin is then slightly stretched and the rough end of the microdermabrasion tool is brushed back and forth until the appropriate amount of scraping has occurred. A healing ointment, such as petroleum jelly, and topical antiseptics may be applied after the procedure followed by bandages for protection. 

Due to the slight invasive nature of this procedure, local anesthesia is used. It can last anywhere from 1-2 hours and is generally performed in the office. With deeper microdermabrasion treatments, there may be minor bleeding. Patients must expect that the treated area will be red and swollen for about 10-14 days.  Peeling will take place and could last up to a full week. The new skin will look pink and gradually fade to a more natural skin color after a few weeks. It is critical that the patient strictly adheres to post-treatment care, including an avoidance of sun exposure, to ensure proper skin healing.

Microdermabrasion can cost around $100 for small areas and $3,000 for larger areas. The cost fluctuates depending on the size of the area being treated, as well as the number of sessions it takes to attain the desired results.

Any individual, men or women, with skin irregularities may consider the benefits of microdermabrasion. It’s an effective treatment for th ose who have fine wrinkles, acne scars, keloid, hyperpigmentation or any abnormal skin growth.

There are some precautions for those who have specific skin conditions, including severe acne or those who are on aggressive acne medications. The doctor will evaluate the patient’s condition before any treatment and inquire about any medical case that may be present, or medications that have been taken within the last year.

Freckles are an overproduction of melanin in the skin and common to those who have a fair complexion. It becomes visible due to extreme exposure to sun. Although microdermabrasion can remove the top layers of skin where freckles are contained, there are other alternatives specifically for freckle removal such as a chemical peel or laser treatment to minimize the freckles from reoccurring.

Microdermabrasion and chemical peels both refinish the skin to promote new skin growth. Both can be mildly or aggressively invasive depending on how many layers are involved. The only difference between the two treatments is the method used in achieving the intended results. Microdermabrasion uses a surgical tool that gently scrapes the skin while a chemical peel uses solutions, usually acid based, to attain a similar result. Microdermabrasion does better in removing small acne scars as there is more control on which tiny spots need more scraping.