Dermabrasion is a precision skin resurfacing treatment that mechanically removes the top layer of damaged skin, allowing fresh, smoother, more even-toned skin to emerge beneath. Unlike chemical peels — which dissolve skin cells with controlled acid — dermabrasion uses a specialized abrasive instrument to physically remove the upper skin layers. The mechanism is different, but the effect is similar: deeper exfoliation than any topical product can achieve, combined with stimulation of new collagen production as the skin heals. The treatment is particularly effective for patients with acne scarring, deeper sun damage, fine lines, age spots, and textural irregularities that have not responded to less invasive options. Dr. John Anastasatos at Los Angeles Plastic Surgery offers dermabrasion treatment at his Beverly Hills office with the depth-control precision and aesthetic judgment this resurfacing technique specifically rewards.

Dr. Anastasatos brings exceptional credentials to dermabrasion treatment. He has delivered formal academic lectures at the UAB Kirklin Clinic on “Botox and Chemical Peels” — directly relevant to skin resurfacing fundamentals that underlie dermabrasion as well. He was profiled by the Beverly Hills Courier in a feature titled “Anastasatos turns Body Restoration into art form” — reflecting his reputation specifically for refined aesthetic results. With over two decades of facial cosmetic expertise in Beverly Hills since 2007, he is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and named by The Luxe Insider as one of the Top 10 Plastic Surgeons in the World.

How Dermabrasion Works

The skin is both delicate and remarkably resilient — capable of withstanding daily exposure to sun, environmental stressors, and the cumulative effects of aging, but not without lasting visible signs. UV damage produces discoloration, sun spots, and accelerated wrinkle formation. Acne leaves textural scarring and indentations that persist long after the active condition resolves. Lost collagen and elasticity produce fine lines and surface laxity. When these concerns are concentrated in the upper layers of skin, removing those layers reveals the smoother, more even skin beneath.

The procedure is performed using:

• Mild local anesthesia — to minimize discomfort during the treatment
• Specialized abrasive instrument — to mechanically remove the upper skin layers in a precisely controlled depth
• Topical recovery support — to protect and accelerate healing as new skin emerges

As the skin heals over the following days, the body produces additional collagen — improving firmness, smoothing fine wrinkles, and refining skin texture beyond what surface treatment alone can achieve.

What Dermabrasion Addresses

Dermabrasion is particularly effective for:

• Acne Scars: Including pitted and depressed scarring that has not responded to other treatments
• Fine Wrinkles: Particularly around the mouth and eyes
• Sun Damage: Including discoloration, age spots, and surface skin changes from cumulative UV exposure
• Surgical or Traumatic Scars: Smoothing the texture transition between scar and surrounding skin
• Skin Texture Irregularities: Roughness, scaliness, or uneven surface from various causes
• Pre-Cancerous Skin Lesions: Selected actinic keratoses and similar surface lesions

What to Expect From Recovery

After dermabrasion, the treated skin is red and tender for several days as the new skin layer regenerates. Specific recovery characteristics include:

• First 5 to 7 days: Redness, tenderness, and mild swelling; meticulous skin care critical
• Week 2: Pink coloration as healing progresses; most patients return to professional and social activities
• Weeks 3 to 6: Continued color normalization; sun protection essential
• Several months: Final refined skin texture and tone fully emerges as collagen remodeling completes

Dermabrasion vs. Chemical Peels

Both treatments produce skin resurfacing — but the mechanism is different. Chemical peels use acid to dissolve damaged skin cells; dermabrasion uses mechanical abrasion. For some patients and concerns, one approach is clearly preferable to the other. During consultation, Dr. Anastasatos evaluates your specific skin and goals to determine which approach — or which combination — will produce the best result.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dermabrasion

Is dermabrasion painful?

Mild local anesthesia is used during the procedure to minimize discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as scratchy rather than painful. Some tenderness during the first several days of recovery is normal.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients have visible redness and tenderness for 5 to 7 days, after which they return to professional and social activities with the assistance of light makeup. Pink discoloration continues to fade over the subsequent weeks.

Will dermabrasion completely remove acne scars?

Dermabrasion can produce significant improvement in acne scarring, particularly for raised or shallow depressed scars. Very deep, narrow scars may require combined treatment approaches. Realistic expectations are essential — dermabrasion smooths and improves rather than eliminates.

How soon can I be in the sun?

Sun protection is critical for several months following dermabrasion. The newly resurfaced skin is highly photosensitive, and unprotected sun exposure can produce hyperpigmentation. Strict sunscreen use and sun avoidance are mandatory during early recovery.

Am I a good candidate for dermabrasion?

The best candidates are healthy adults with concerns concentrated in the upper skin layers — acne scarring, sun damage, fine wrinkles — and who can commit to careful sun protection during recovery. Skin type and tone affect candidacy; Dr. Anastasatos evaluates these factors during consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Anastasatos for Dermabrasion

• UAB Kirklin Clinic Lecturer on “Botox and Chemical Peels”: Academic teaching credentials in skin treatment fundamentals
• Beverly Hills Courier “Body Restoration” Feature: Profile reflecting refined aesthetic technique
• Two Decades in Beverly Hills: Private practice since 2007
• Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: ABPS certification, FACS Fellowship, ASAPS/ASPS membership
• Top 10 Plastic Surgeon in the World: Named by The Luxe Insider
• Depth-Control Expertise: Matching abrasion depth to patient skin and concern — the technical key to refined resurfacing results

Schedule Your Dermabrasion Consultation in Beverly Hills

If acne scarring, deeper sun damage, or persistent surface texture concerns have not responded to topical treatments or non-surgical alternatives, dermabrasion offers a precise mechanical solution performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. John Anastasatos welcomes patients to the Beverly Hills office at 436 North Bedford Drive, Suite 202, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, for a private consultation. Contact Los Angeles Plastic Surgery to schedule your appointment with Dr. Anastasatos.