Skin Resurfacing
Skin
Resurfacing |
The
Procedure | Recovery
Understanding
Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing removes the outer layers of the skin on the face to
reduce and/or eliminate lines, wrinkles and mild to moderate scars.
These procedures stimulate new skin growth, resulting in a fresher, more
youthful appearance. Skin resurfacing is a time consuming, frustrating
and anxiety producing experience; however, it can often produce some of
the best results accomplished by cosmetic procedures. Chemicals, special
surgical equipment and lasers may be used for skin resurfacing.
CHEMICAL PEEL: A chemical peel involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin of the face. The solution causes the surface layers of skin to peel off, leaving a newly regenerated skin that is usually smoother and less wrinkled. A chemical peel reduces or eliminates superficial and some deeper lines in the facial skin. It is also helpful in reducing or removing freckles, age spots and splotching caused by birth control pills or pregnancy. The depth of a chemical peel is controlled through the amount and type of solution used by
Dr. English as well as the application process.
DERMABRASION:
When the skin has an uneven texture that results from acne or previous injuries, dermabrasion may provide improvement. The process of dermabrasion is similar to sanding an irregularity from a wooden surface. The more elevated areas of skin are smoothed down to diminish the high-low variations that cast shadows when light strikes the face. Because the skin of the face is fairly thick, dermabrasion can be performed in all facial areas except the eyelids.
LASER: State of the art skin
resurfacing is performed with a super-pulsed carbon dioxide laser. Laser
surgery involves a special beam of light energy that is absorbed by the
skin and surrounding tissues. The laser pulse reduces or removes
wrinkles and lines around the face, eyes, forehead and mouth.
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The Procedure
At English Plastic Surgery Center & Surgi-Spa, skin resurfacing is
carried out under local anesthesia with I.V. sedation. If a full-face
laser resurfacing is recommended, it is performed as an outpatient
procedure at the Little Rock Surgery Center or Baptist Medical Center. A
general anesthesia is used for this procedure. When the skin resurfacing
is completed, the patient leaves the facility with no dressings on the
skin. There is a fair amount of stinging in the peeled area for several
hours afterward, but this is easily tolerated through the use of oral
medication.
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Recovery
Some degree of swelling follows skin resurfacing. The swelling is due to
the new tissue fluids brought into the area by the body to promote
healing. When the fluids are no longer required, they are absorbed into
the bloodstream. The patient can expect swelling to peak around 72 hours
after the procedure. The majority of the swelling is gone in two to
three weeks.
The skin will usually take a minimum of
six weeks and a maximum of three to nine months to heal. The red
coloration of the skin becomes pink and then regains a more normal skin
color during this healing period. With some skin resurfacing procedures,
the resurfaced areas may be lightened by approximately 1/2 shade after
six to nine months. While the skin is healing, it is thinner and more
sensitive. The "new" skin must be kept moist and protected
from the sun.
The final result will not be apparent
for at least three to nine months following the procedure. The patient must be willing to accept the temporary swelling and discoloration that
occurs following skin resurfacing. Most patients feel the inconvenience
is a small price to pay for the cosmetic improvements.
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Facelift | Eyelid Lift |
Nose Surgery | Eyebrow Lift
|
Cheek Implant
Chin Implant | BOTOX®
Cosmetic Injection |
Restylane
| Collagen
Permanent Make-Up | Eyelash Extensions
| Lumenis Quantum Laser
Candela GentleLASE Laser | Skin
Resurfacing
| Skin Care Program
