PLASTIC SURGERY | Chemical Peels

Q. Is there anything non-surgical I can do to correct the fine lines and sun damage on my face?

Chemical peels are an effective way to restore wrinkled, blemished, unevenly pigmented, or sun-damaged facial skin. Peel programs use a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers.

Glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can’t spare downtime. Trichloroacetic acid can be used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions, and produces a deep peel. It is used mainly to treat patients with coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, or pre-cancerous growths. Some peel programs require skin preparation, so advance planning is important.

Before making any decisions about a peel program, it is very important that you consult with a certified aesthetician who works under the supervision of a plastic surgeon. Be certain to discuss your expectations, get a detailed explanation of the procedure and recovery period. Your medical aesthetician will partner with you to develop the most appropriate treatment plan to meet your needs.

THIS ARTICLE APPEARS IN THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE

ask an expert Dr. W. John Bull, Jr. is double board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Bull’s Naperville practice, DuPage Plastic Surgery, specializes in both non-surgical and surgical treatment of the face, breast and body. Call (630) 717-6000, or email us at contact@dupageplastics.com, dupageplastics.com.