Skin Resurfacing
Chemical Peels, Lasers, and Dermabrasion
Some surgeons and aestheticians refer to the procedures herein described as a “non-surgical facelift.” Creative ways to apply peeling solutions do not change the fact that the materials cause a separation of the upper layer of skin which “peels” or “sheds” within a few days.
Superficial layers of skin can be removed by a variety of methods of skin resurfacing including chemical peeling, dermabrasion and laser resurfacing. Each seems to have some unique qualities and an experienced surgeon can explain which procedures might be the most advantageous in any individual case.
With any of these methods, outer layers of the sun damaged, wrinkled, or scarred skin are removed and new collagen and elastic fibers are produced in the deeper layers of skin. As a result some tightening of facial tissues occurs, but not to the extent which can be accomplished with surgical removal through conventional facelifting and eyelid lifting techniques.
Skin resurfacing may be done as an isolated procedure (for example around the lips, around the eyes, or the entire face) or it may be used as an indispensable adjunct to facelifting and eyelid plastic surgery in an overall facial rejuvenation program.
Resurfacing alone is not indicated for treatment of sagging tissues; although the new skin has better elasticity, this requires surgery.