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Chemical Peels

While fine skin wrinkles cannot be corrected by a facelift or by eyelid lifts, there is a procedure called skin peeling that can improve, or in some cases, eliminate these wrinkles. Sun damage and the loss of skin elasticity due to aging cause most wrinkles. As we age, the elastic fibers in the deeper layers of the dermis (the second layer of the skin) lose their strength, allowing the skin to sag and wrinkle. Frequent or excessive sun exposure greatly accelerates the problem.

Chemical skin peeling frequently can restore some of the elasticity by penetrating to the dermis and microscopically tightening the elastic fibers to give the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance. Skin peeling can eliminate many wrinkles caused by aging and sun damage.

There is a wide range of peels available. Micropeels are very light and are repeated several times to obtain the final result. These light peels allow you to wear makeup immediately and to maintain your normal routine. The deep peels do not require repeated applications and more deeply penetrate the skin. This will cause crusting and peeling, which will take three to fourteen days to heal, depending on the type of peel solution used. Some patients find their skin will be slightly lighter or darker after a deep peel. Makeup covers this easily. This procedure is typically done with light sedation and minimal anesthesia as an out-patient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home that same day. Depending on the depth of the peel, full recovery typically takes 2-4 weeks.

Learn more about Chemical Peel skin resurfacing from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at www.plasticsurgery.org.

• See this procedure in 3-D animation.
  

Please contact our cosmetic surgery practice to schedule an appointment for this procedure.