Northern Virginia & Washington DC
If acne scars, deep wrinkles, or uneven skin texture have left you feeling frustrated with your complexion, dermabrasion may offer the dramatic improvement you’ve been searching for. At Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute in Fairfax, we serve the greater Washington, D.C. area, offering dermabrasion as a powerful surgical skin resurfacing treatment that smooths and regenerates the skin by targeting imperfections at their root. Unlike less invasive treatments, dermabrasion reaches the deeper layers of skin, delivering a level of transformation that cannot be matched with creams, peels, or medspa facials alone.
Pain Level After Surgery
Mild-Moderate
Anesthesia
General
Duration of Surgery
1 Hour
Scars
None
Final Results
6-12 Months
Return to Regular Work
1-2 Weeks
Resume Exercise
4 Weeks
Price Range
$4,800 & up
Dermabrasion is not the same as microdermabrasion, which is a medspa procedure that we offer. Dermabrasion is a procedure performed in the operating room, where a device is used to remove the top layer of the skin down to the dermis, resulting in bleeding but providing a significant improvement that cannot be achieved non-surgically.
Dermabrasion is indicated for individuals with severe facial scars, acne scars, or scars from chickenpox. It is also an excellent tool to soften the “smoker’s wrinkles” around the lips as a result of smoking, sun damage, or old age. Dermabrasion can significantly improve the depth and quality of scars as well as certain types of wrinkles. The premise is simple: if the top layer of the skin is removed, then new skin will regenerate that is healthier, with even color tone and consistency.
Dermabrasion offers a range of impressive benefits for patients struggling with visible skin imperfections. By removing damaged surface layers and stimulating collagen production, dermabrasion can significantly reduce the appearance of deep acne scars, traumatic scars, chickenpox marks, and stubborn wrinkles, particularly those fine lines that form around the mouth. Many patients notice improved skin tone, texture, and clarity after healing, with smoother, more uniform skin replacing rough or uneven areas. The treatment also promotes new cell turnover, which can brighten dull complexions and reduce hyperpigmentation in targeted spots.
An initial consultation is scheduled to discuss dermabrasion and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Alternatives may be discussed as well. Your medical history will be reviewed, and you will be asked to see your medical doctor for a physical check-up and a few laboratory tests to ensure you can undergo the surgery safely. You are given the opportunity to be seen by your own doctor to obtain clearance for surgery. You are asked to stop medications that cause bleeding, such as aspirin or aspirin-like products (Motrin or Ibuprofen), a week before this procedure. You are asked to stop smoking two weeks before and two weeks after surgery, for the surgery to be performed safely, and for you to have optimal results. You would need antiviral medications if you had cold sores in the past. You are given the opportunity to speak with patients who have undergone the same surgery you are considering. We will see you shortly after the surgery (in a day or two, usually). You are seen regularly after your surgery. You are always welcome to return for a follow-up, even years after your surgery, at no additional charge.
Ideal candidates for dermabrasion in the Washington, D.C. area are individuals who are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of surgical skin resurfacing. It is especially well-suited for individuals with deep facial scarring resulting from acne, previous trauma, or conditions such as chickenpox, as well as those seeking to improve the appearance of stubborn fine lines, particularly vertical lines around the lips. Patients with fair to medium skin tones typically achieve the most even results, as darker skin tones may be at an increased risk of pigmentation changes. Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking prior to and after the procedure to support optimal healing. Our team will evaluate your skin quality, goals, and medical history during a personalized consultation at our Fairfax practice to determine if dermabrasion is the best solution for your concerns.
For the right patient, dermabrasion can be a highly gratifying procedure. The advantages include natural-looking results, long-term skin enhancement for a typically challenging problem, and no scarring from the dermabrasion itself. This procedure takes approximately one hour, depending on the area being dermabraded.
The procedure is straightforward and relatively simple. A patient deemed a good candidate for this procedure is given antibiotics and anesthetized in the operating room. The facial skin with scars is injected with a tumescent solution to provide numbing and reduce bleeding. Next, a device is used to dermabrade, or gently peel the skin. The result appears as though that area has been ‘sandpapered”. Dressings are placed on the raw surface area and left in place for about a week, allowing new skin to regenerate underneath. The skin is pink for a few weeks and then gradually returns to its natural and vibrant appearance. Patients are advised to avoid direct sunlight for the first few weeks after this procedure, as new skin is forming.
Our office will provide a comprehensive post-operative plan to ensure the best possible outcome. The plan will outline what to expect postoperatively, including estimated recovery time, pain management, garments or dressings, and anticipated activity level. For your safety, we require that an adult stay with you at least the first 24 hours after surgery and drive you to your next-day follow-up visit. With most facial procedures, you will be instructed to limit activity for the first week or two, which could include restrictions on driving, prolonged travel, and flying. Additionally, we recommend that you refrain from exercise until cleared by your physician, typically around four weeks post-surgery. You are asked to refrain from smoking for a minimum of two weeks. To optimize healing, we recommend that you eat a high-protein diet. You should anticipate a variable degree of bruising and swelling, as with any surgical procedure; light make-up may be used to cover bruises starting a week after surgery. We also offer scar creams at an additional cost to optimize results.
To promote healing and minimize complications, you will be seen in a series of post-op appointments, including the day after surgery. These appointments will continue throughout the first year after the procedure to make sure you are healing as planned. For your added convenience, you also have direct access to Dr. Bitar’s cell phone number, should you need to reach him outside of office hours. The final post-operative visit, one year after surgery, is one of our favorites, as the results are fully apparent, and we love seeing our patients happy. You are always welcome to return and visit us, even years after your surgery.
At our practice, we’re proud to be one of the few in the area offering Elixir MD, a cutting-edge LED-based device specifically designed to accelerate healing after cosmetic surgery. Elixir MD stimulates cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances circulation, dramatically shortening recovery time and improving surgical outcomes. This advanced technology sets our practice apart, offering patients a faster, more comfortable healing experience with visibly better results.
At the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute, we take pride in providing our patients with the best possible surgical experience, emphasizing patient safety while striving to optimize surgical results. This process includes comprehensive pre-operative preparation and patient education, the development of a personalized operative plan, and a thoughtful post-operative care regimen that emphasizes patient comfort and promotes recovery.
The Institute has adopted several strategies to further ensure patient safety. We are selective and only offer surgery to patients whose overall health and lifestyle choices allow for healing and facilitate recovery. To minimize risk, we require a comprehensive preoperative assessment that includes a thorough history and physical examination, as well as targeted laboratory tests.
All surgeries are performed in-house at our AAAASF-accredited surgical suite, representing the gold standard in patient safety and care. This certification ensures we meet the highest standards, with board-certified anesthesiologists and nurses on-site, adhering to strict protocols to minimize risks and optimize outcomes. Dr. Bitar is committed to continuing education, refining his skills, and introducing new techniques, all with the goal of enhancing safety and surgical outcomes.
We emphasize patient safety in our peri-operative care plan, advocating early mobilization, optimizing nutrition, and providing detailed care instructions. After surgery, patients are seen in our office frequently and early, starting the day after their procedure, and a staff member is available around the clock for any questions or concerns. Our entire team is dedicated to our patients’ well-being, and every measure is designed to minimize potential complications, promote a comfortable and rapid recovery, and optimize surgical outcomes.
Our commitment to excellence and exceptional patient care is in every step of your doctor-patient experience. Dr. George Bitar is a distinguished board-certified plastic surgeon who stays on the cutting edge of advancements in cosmetic surgery and technology to offer the best possible results. With a blend of artistry and meticulous surgical technique, he achieves beautiful and natural results for our patients. We provide a high level of patient safety, and our experienced and caring staff will be with you every step of the way. Our institute offers a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical options, including skin care, injectables, and laser treatments, as well as in-office and hospital procedures, providing a versatile approach tailored to individual patient needs. Your aesthetic goals are our top priority, and each procedure is carefully customized to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.
For more information, call our office at 703-206-0506.
The cost of Dermabrasion in the Fairfax and Washington, D.C. area starts at $4,800 and varies depending on the size of the treatment area and whether dermabrasion is performed alone or in combination with other facial procedures. Pricing reflects the skill of a board-certified plastic surgeon, the use of advanced surgical equipment, and the personalized care patients receive before, during, and after treatment. Because dermabrasion is a highly customized procedure, exact pricing is determined after an in-depth consultation with Dr. Bitar or another member of our team, where your specific goals and skin condition will be evaluated. Our team will also walk you through financing options, should you wish to explore payment plans.
If you would like further information about this procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule an appointment by calling (703) 206-0506 or completing an online request form.
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“Natural beauty but doing a little somethin’ somethin’ to make beautiful features pop is what the Model Lift™ accomplishes.”
–
Dr. George Bitar
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