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A facial peel is utilized to treat a whole range of skin conditions. These can range from skin discoloration, sun damage, wrinkles, visible blood vessels and acne. There is a myriad of different peeling agents and lasers that can be used for a desired effect. Generally, superficial and medium depth peels are used to treat discolored areas, acne and fine wrinkles. The deeper phenol based peels are used for skin tightening and wrinkle removal. Most peels are performed in the medical office but the deeper peels usually require a brief general anesthetic.
The Best Candidates for Facial Peels
The best candidates for a facial peel are people who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way their skin looks. If you're physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate.
Planning Your Surgery
Good preoperative skin preparation is essential. Your surgeon will go over this in detail. For most peels, you will need to be on Retin-A and/or hydroquinone for at least 2 weeks prior. Avoidance of sun exposure is also critically important to help prevent post operative skin discoloration.
The Surgery
The peel procedure usually takes about 45 minutes. A mild sedative is prescribed for use before the procedure. A local anesthetic is infiltrated around the face. The peeling agents are then applied and the skin reaction closely observed. There is usually a stinging sensation that recedes after a few minutes. Once complete, the face is dressed with antibiotic ointment.
After Your Surgery
After the facial peel your face will get swollen and red. You will use a strict skin care regimen that will facilitate a rapid and even healing of the new skin surface. Peeling usually begins after 4-5 days and you will peel several layers of skin depending on the depth of the peel. The discomfort level is similar to a mild sunburn. Most patients will avoid social contact for the first 1 or 2 weeks depending on their comfort level.
The new skin surface will become completely re-established after about 2 weeks and a non-drying makeup can be used. The skin may remain shades of pink – red for several weeks to months. Strict sun avoidance is required for 3 months.
The depth and intensity of the particular type of peel will make the healing and recovery lengths shorter or longer. Patients who have had previous peels will experience less swelling and a quicker recovery.
Content courtesy of PlasticSurgery.org
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