Skin Resurfacing FAQs
Chicago Illinois

Skin Resurfacing Frequently Asked Questions

Just for Patients
Forms & Information

Chicago Plastic Surgeon


Dr. George Moynihan
named as one of
America’s Top Physicians

Dr. Moynihan's
Credentials

Q - What is skin resurfacing?
Skin resurfacing refers to a number of different procedures which can improve the quality of the skin’s surface by diminishing sun damage, fine lines and dynamic wrinkles, pigmentation problems, and skin laxity. Skin resurfacing procedures include chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser surgery.

Q - What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a procedure which uses a chemical solution to peel away the top layers of the skin. Chemical come in three different strengths including glycolic acid peels (the mildest), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels (a medium-depth peel), and phenol peels (the strongest). Chemical peels can smooth the skin and provide a more youthful appearance.

Q - What is dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a procedure which removes the top layer of skin through a method of controlled surgical scraping using a high speed rotating brush. Dermabrasion can smooth the skin and improve the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

Q - What is laser surgery?
Laser surgery is a procedure which removes the top layer of skin with a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device. Laser surgery can improve the appearance of wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars.

Q - Who is a good candidate for skin resurfacing?
Men and women who are seeking an improvement in skin quality may be good candidates for skin resurfacing. Aggressive skin resurfacing is not advised for patients with darker skin types.

Q - What happens during the skin resurfacing consultation?
During the consultation, your skin will be examined, your medical history taken, and your goals discussed. A treatment plan will be recommended and all aspects of the procedure will be explained including the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - Where is skin resurfacing performed?
Dr. Moynihan may perform skin resurfacing in his office or at an outpatient surgical center.  

Q - What is the anesthesia used for skin resurfacing?
Local anesthesia or sedation may be used for skin resurfacing.  

Q - How long is the surgical time for skin resurfacing?
Skin resurfacing may take anywhere from fifteen minutes to an hour to perform.

Q - What is the recovery like after skin resurfacing?
It takes seven to ten days after skin resurfacing for the superficial layers of skin to repair themselves. However, the skin may still appear pink for up to four more weeks, and makeup may be worn to help conceal this.  

Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my skin resurfacing procedure?
You should plan on being out of work for about seven to ten days. Any lingering redness can be concealed with makeup. 

Q - Will I be able to exercise after my skin resurfacing procedure?
Light exercise may be resumed one week after the procedure, though more strenuous activities will need to be postponed for at least two weeks.

Q - Are there any risks associated with undergoing skin resurfacing?
All surgery carries some risk. For skin resurfacing, this may include the risk of hyper or hypo pigmentation, prolonged redness, and scarring.

Q - Will my insurance company cover the cost of skin resurfacing?
Patients will need to check with their own insurer. In general, skin resurfacing procedures which are performed for cosmetic reasons alone are usually not covered. When treating a deformity or skin injury, some degree of coverage may be available.

 

Chicago Plastic Surgery | Chicago Rhinoplasty | Chicago Facelift | Plastic Surgeon in Chicago
60 East Delaware Place, Suite 1400, 14th Floor | Chicago, Illinois 60611 | Tel:312.988.9300 Fax:312.988.9310
Copyright 2007 Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, Inc. All Rights reserved. Sitemap

Chicago Plastic Surgery Schedule a Consultation Before and After photos Patient Testimonials Ask the Surgeon About Us Media and News Contact Us