To enhance comfort during the procedure, Dr. Leonard will provide you with sedation in addition to a local anesthetic. As a result, you will sleep through the entire process while Dr. Leonard takes care of your skin. He will begin by using a razor-like instrument called a dermatome, which will graze over the surface of your skin. As this happens, it will gently remove the top layers, which tend to be the most damaged. Once the most favorable results have been achieved, Dr. Leonard will apply ointment directly onto your skin before covering the treated areas with a bandage.

Caring for your skin properly after treatment is a critical step in achieving optimal results. This begins with having a designated ride home once the procedure has been completed. Assistance should continue with one or two people at your home to help you with basic needs. Your skin should be cared for regularly by applying the ointment and replacing the bandages as often as is required.

After about a week of healing, it’s likely the bandages will not be required. However, Dr. Leonard may still require you to apply ointment based on your examination during a follow-up visit. As you continue healing, you will find that your skin will remain sensitive and need to be protected. It’s recommended to avoid prolonged time in the sun or any outdoor activities that may irritate the treatment site. Scabbing and peeling of the skin are both common and can be expected for the majority of patients.

When it comes to risks of the dermaplaning procedure, they include scarring, changes in the skin’s pigmentation and infection. For specific information about side effects, Dr. Leonard can address those during your personal consultation.