Reviews
2.4
89 Reviews
Good or Excellent Response
80%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Moderate Response
98%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Side Effects
High
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist or plastic surgeon? Make an appointment to get this procedure done. Don't have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find a dermatologist or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a plastic surgeon.
Read All About Dermabrasion
Compare To Other Treatments
5
7.9%
4
19.1%
3
18%
2
16.9%
1
38.2%

Used Dermabrasion? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
April 29, 2007

Pros:

None

Cons:

clearly visible demarcation line. Persistent redness. Skin tone is totally destroyed.

My skin is type IV. I had dermabrasion 2.5 years ago. Demarcation line is still visible currently from far away. Redness persists all the time. It's the worst decision I have took in my life. Having scars on my face is hard to deal me, but, having dermabrasion almost makes me kill myself (seriously). I have passed the extremely difficult time and on the way of recover (mostly psychologically). By the way, I went for so called most experienced doctor (Dr. Y.). One more victim like me is too much.
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April 16, 2007

Pros:

?

Cons:

expensive.

I think it made my scar's stand out more. i'm thinking of doing a co2.
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January 16, 2007

Pros:

dermabrasion does not work. i have had 6 treatments and looks great when you get it done but i still have cratersin by sking from acne and scars.i is expensive and the before and after photos that they show you are fake.

instead of all these treatments the best is to go see your doctor and ask for anti biotics which help acne disappear 100% with regards to scars they will disappear over time and regards to craters in your skin its sad to know it will stay forever one advise try not to pick scars
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December 22, 2006

Pros:

none

Cons:

rolling acne scars looked worse after dermabrasion
difficult recovery

I would not recommend dermabrasion for moderate to severe acne scars. I had the procedure many years ago but it didn't help the appearance of my rolling scars at all. In fact, I believe it made some of them worse. The recovery is no fun--red face for a long time and having to keep the face moist for several days is difficult. Since my procedure I have learned that you must find a doctor that is very skilled in doing dermabrasions (mine had minimal experience). Many physicians won't even do them. Very difficult for the doctor to determine how "deep" to go. They often err on the cautious side and therefore, not good results. It was a waste of money for me.
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.