How Long Can Microdermabrasion Results Last?

asked 2 years ago by pomona in Los Angeles
Latest answer by Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
Question viewed 4,769 times
Tags: age 18-24, male, acne scars, large pores, results

Hello, I am a 22-year-old male. I had moderately bad acne and now have some scars (not too bad), and some enlarged pores still. I have been considering getting the the Peel and Microdermabrasion done but the cost will be about $600 for 12 treatments: 6 peels 6 micro sessions. How long can the treatment realistically last me because that is a lot of money to me and I want to make sure its worth it. Does this treatment work and does the skin go back to having scars, or will it stay looking nice?

5 answers to How Long Can Microdermabrasion Results Last?

Microdermabrasion versus dermabrasion for acne

Microdermabrasion is only supposed to remove the epidermis. However most scarring from acne occurs in the dermis. Therefore technically it will have little if any permanent effect. True dermabrasion is performed into the dermis which can have long term and permanent effects but involves substantially more risks and costs.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Microdermabrasion poor choice for acne scars

There are basically three types of scars due to the ravages of acne. They are: ice pick scars, rolling scars, and boxcar scars. Each of these involve the dermis, the icepick scars generally being the deepest. Note these are all dermal scars which makes them non-amenable to treatment to microdermabrasio. Microdermabrasion, even at its most aggressive, can only affect the very upper dermis. For ice pick scars, one can use punch excision ( using a punch biopsy) for the smaller... more

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD
Virginia Beach Dermatologist

Microdermabrasion and Superficial Chemical Peels are not treatments for acne scarring.

My personal preference for the treatment of depressed, broad-based acne scarring is Injectable Fillers. Ice-pick scars, and enlarged pores do not respond well to Fillers. I've attached a link to Acne Scarring photos for your perusal. I hope this is helpful for you.

Eric M. Joseph, MD
West Orange Facial Plastic Surgeon

Microdermabrasion will not improve acne or scarring

Microdermabrasion will NOT significantly improve EITHER your acne or its scarring. If you want a return on your $600 dollars, do NOT spend it on this treatment. Microdermabrasion involves sanding off the very superficial surface of the skin (the Epidermis). The acne process takes place in the deep dermis and the scars reach all the way down there as well. As such, your skin may feel smoother for a few days but it will NOT materially change your condition for that you may want to try other... more

Peter A. Aldea, MD
Memphis Plastic Surgeon

Microdermabrasion for acne scars

Please realize that peels and microdermabrasion for acne scars are designed to "improve" your skin but will not eliminate the scars totally. Make sure you understand this if the money you would spend is tight and you are expecting to "get rid" of the scars to be worth the investment. This will not happen.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS
Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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