Wrinkles, sagging skin, laxity in the jowls and neck begin to appear after years of exposure to the elements, facial expressions and the natural aging process.Not long ago, a facelift was considered by many to be reserved for movie stars and celebrities. Today, a facelift, or rhytidectomy, is not just for the rich and famous. It is one of the most well-accepted and most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. Recent studies have shown that looking good has a direct correlation to higher pay. Today, baby boomers from every walk of life are electing to have a facelift for cosmetic as well as economic reasons.

Chemical Peels have been used for over 100 years to create an even and controlled shedding of damaged skin cells.Each year thousands of chemical peels are performed in the United States. A chemical peel uses a solution applied to the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the production of new skin cells. It tightens the skin, reduces wrinkling and restores a more youthful appearance.

During your consultation with your surgeon you will want to explain the level of skin improvement you hope to achieve. Your surgeon will then review your medical history and examine your skin type and pigmentation to determine if you are a good candidate for a chemical peel. Together you can evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of chemical peels, discuss your options, your expectations and determine the best treatment for you.

Don't forget to mention any history of viral infections, sensitivity to the sun, or prior skin treatments such as dermabrasion or Accutane treatments within the past six months

Chemical peels can treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven pigmentation
• Shallow acne scars
• Sun-damaged skin
• Age spots
• Freckling

A chemical peel is not a substitute for a facelift or laser resurfacing. It cannot eliminate excessive or lax skin, or deeper wrinkles.

Unlike laser peels, chemical peels can be performed in the face, neck, chest, hands and even the arms and legs.  The peel is done right in the office. There is no need for anesthesia for the mild peels.  The medium depth peel requires topical anesthetic prior to the procedure. Depending on your skin type and the desired results, Dr. Lashgari may recommend a a series of superficial, or a medium depth chemical peel. Your surgeon will select the proper chemical or mix of chemicals (glycolic acid, beta lift, Jessner, TCA or trichloroacetic acid) and apply the solution to various areas of the skin.

Once applied, the chemical produces a separation and peeling of the outer layers of the skin. This stimulates the production of new skin from beneath.

There's very little discomfort with mild peels. With the medium depth peel, most patients experience a  hot and stinging sensation which may last as long as ten minutes. With the numbing cream and ice packs during the procedure, it becomes quite tolerable.

Reactions to chemical peels are similar to a sunburn and range from mild to more pronounced. Generally, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery.A light peel usually results in some redness, and possibly some scaling for a few days. Medium  peels may result in mild swelling,  and may turn brown followed by peeling which resolves within a week.  Ointments and creams will be applied to keep the skin moist. After the peel, the skin might be pink for another week or two. Cosmetics can be applied after the skin is fully healed. Following a chemical peel, your new skin will be smoother, with less sundamage, and maybe even a little tighter; the skin maybe slightly lighter than it was before the treatment.Following any skin peel, it is important that you avoid any exposure to the sun. Your new skin is very sensitive andsusceptible to injury. Always apply a wide spectrum (UVA and UVB blocking) sunblock of at least SPF 30 twenty minutes before you go outside. Er. Lashgari will prescribe a proper home skin-care treatment program to ensure proper healing.

Find out if your skin could benefit from a Chemical Peel. Call our office today for a consultation.