Skin Resurfacing

• Laser Resurfacing
• Dermabrasion
• Chemical Peels

Benefits of Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing is a method of wrinkle, blemish and scar treatment in which the outer layers of the skin are removed, stimulating new skin growth. The goal is reduction and/or elimination of lines, age spots, sun damage, wrinkles, and mild to moderate scars.

The new skin has a fresher, more youthful appearance.

For resurfacing, Dr. Zweig utilizes three types of skin treatments – lasers, chemicals and dermabrasion.

Patient selection for each resurfacing procedure is extremely important as skin type, goals, and length of healing time vary greatly. During your consultation, Dr. Zweig uses his years of experience to evaluate and recommend the most appropriate treatment for you. From experience he achieves optimum results by knowing which technique to use on whom and having his patients pre-treat their skin. As healing time varies greatly, patients must choose the skin resurfacing method best for their schedule.

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Laser Resuracing

There are several lasers used for skin resurfacing, with new ones being introduced all the time. The CO2 laser is the supreme choice for maximum results. It not only removes the top skin layer, but the thermal penetration heats the natural collagen, which encourages its new growth. It tightens the skin somewhat as a bonus. CO2 lasers effectively treat moderate to deep wrinkles and scars. As the laser can be used in the colored area of the lip, it is the only treatment for the vertical lines above the lip which extend into the colored aresa. The accuracy and control of the depth and strength of the laser beam, as well as the ability to treat one area differently than another, makes for superior results. Even with the CO2 laser however, acne scars and some deep wrinkles, particularly around the mouth. may need a secondary treatment or another type of treatment for optimum results.

AAFPRS article on laser resurfacing »

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Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a sanding process which is similar to sanding an irregularity from a wooden surface. It has been used for many years. For wrinkles above the lip, raised scars, and mild indented scars due to acne, dermabrasion by Dr. Zweig can be a very successful treatment. Healing is faster than after a CO2 laser treatment. The skin is pink for a shorter time period and dermabrasion is more cost effective. This procedure should not be confused with micro-dermabrasion, which has very limited results.

View photos of the recovery process in the photo gallery »

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Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels
A chemical peel involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin of the face, causing the surface layers to peel off. While there are light peels, here we are addressing medium and deep peels, which are helpful in reducing or eliminating freckles, age spots, unevenness as well as softening, and even eliminating superficial wrinkles. The type of chemical used, as well as the method and amount of the application, are carefully selected by Dr. Zweig for the patient’s needs and skin type.

Medium peels are for sun-damaged skin with some very fine lines, age spots and freckles.

Deep chemical peels are used mainly to reduce wrinkles. Dr. Zweig does many deep peels using phenol in the lower eye area often combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). This phenol peel is very effective for eliminating fine lines and some tightening of the skin. It may help dark circles under the eyes. Patient selection is very important with this peel. It is not appropriate for patients with dark skin.

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Anesthesia
Patients choices vary according to the procedure. Medium peels and deep peels under the eyelid area alone can be performed in a procedure room and do not require a local anesthetic. Dermabrasion is performed in our AAAHC-accredited outpatient surgery center with heavy sedation and a local anesthetic, but there are other options for anesthesia given by our board-certified physician anesthesiologist. Laser resurfacing is also performed in our AAAHC-accredited outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia given by our board-certified physician anesthesiologist.

Recovery
Recovery with medium peels is dependent on the individual. You may expect to be able to apply make-up in approximately one week. The pinkness fades in a few weeks to a few months depending on skin type.

It is most important in all skin resurfacing procedures to follow directions given for post-operative care. These includes not picking the peeling area and protecting the fresh new skin by wearing a hat and special sunscreen at all times.

After laser resurfacing, the patient goes home with a special dressing, which looks similar to white paper tape. Eyes and mouth are not covered. This dressing is refreshed several times by our staff and the patient is given thorough post-operative instructions in cleansing and medicating the area. Most patients find that they are able to wear make-up in 10 to 14 days, even though there may be persistent pinkness or redness fading to pink for several months, varying with the patient. For the patient willing to wear cover-up makeup for a while, it is a fantastic treatment. Due to Dr. Zweig's experience and expertise, problems are usually few and results excellent.

Recovery with deep (phenol) peels varies greatly, but most people are able to wear make-up in approcimately 1 week on average. There will be persistent redness, fading to pink over several months. Done under the eyes, it produces excellent results and enhances lower eyelid surgery.

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