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February 10, 2012

Dermabrasion (cont.)

Are There Side Effects and Complications With Dermabrasion?

Side effects are uncommon but they do occur. The most common side effects include:

  • Uneven changes in skin color (temporary or permanent)
  • Darkening of the skin (temporary or permanent)
  • Formation of a scar
  • Infection
Darkening of the skin usually occurs because of sun exposure in the days and months following surgery.

Care After Surgery

Do not drink alcohol for 48 hours after the surgery. Do not take aspirin or any products that contain aspirin or ibuprofen for one week after the surgery. Avoid smoking, as advised by your doctor. You will have a mandatory appointment the day after your surgery and your doctor will provide more details.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Dermatology
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, Sept. 2003.

Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003


Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 6:50:08 AM



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