Microdermabrasion

Q. What is microdermabrasion?

A. Let me first differentiate microdermabrasion from dermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a relatively non-invasive method of refreshing the skin, with little to no redness or irritation. At Monarch Skin Rejuvenation Center this can be performed in less than 30 minutes per treatment; you could do it over your lunch hour. It does not involve a chemical or a laser.

Dermabrasion, on the other hand, is much more invasive. It is done by a physician using a rotating abrasive tool and requires anesthesia. The skin takes several days to heal. Microdermabrasion focuses on the top layer of your skin (stratum corneum) using a precision handpiece that directs a stream of very fine crystals. The gentle action of the crystals combines with mild suction to remove the dead outer layer of your skin, while brining smoother, softer skin to the surface. At Monarch, our microdermabrasion process, called the Parisian Peel, can treat:
  • sun-damaged skin
  • age spots
  • superficial pigmentation
  • fine lines and wrinkles
  • enlarged or oily process
  • blackheads and whiteheads
  • acne scars
It usually takes 4 to 8 treatments to get the best results, and prices range from $80 to $125 per treatment, with a discount available for a package of treatments.

A major benefit of microdermabrasion is that there is virtually no "down time" after treatments. Your skin will feel much softer and more vibrant. Women who wear a lot of makeup have appreciated how clean their faces feel.

I have also found that microdermabrasion is well-complimented by the use of physician recommended skin care products, such as glycolic acid compounds and other anti-wrinkle treatments. It is reasonable to expect that these medications will better penetrate the skin of patients undergoing microdermabrasion treatments since the epidermis has been lifted and will not be a barrier for absorption.

Many patients have found that use of the home products available at Monarch have enhanced the microdermabrasion process. And it makes sense that these two would work well together. The "buffing" of the microdermabrasion is a cleansing process as well as a stimulation for collagen production and cell removal. The suction aspect of the procedure is a unique cleansing technique for removal of debris trapped in the pores. The skin care products can go right to the deeper skin layers to repair and renew.

Microdermabrasion is safe for patients with all skin types and colors, including those with darker skin. In the past these patients have been particularly frustrated with not being good candidates for laser resurfacing.

All in all, microdermabrasion is a very safe and healthy treatment for your skin. Your best bet is to make an appointment for a skin care consultation where a skin care specialist can help you decide what process is best for you.



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Monarch Plastic Surgery
5401 College Boulevard, Suite 203 • Leawood, KS 66211-1617
Phone (913) 663-3838 • Fax (913) 663-4434

9401 N. Oak Trafficway, Suite 100 • Kansas City, MO 64155
Phone (816) 436-3262 • Fax (816) 436-4687