The following "Guide to Cosmetic Plastic Surgery" is an overview to cosmetic plastic surgery and was published by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc.
Gentle Skin Treatments
Skin texture, superficial blemishes, age spots, enlarged pores and fine lines may be improved by a number of non-invasive skin revitalizing treatments.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is one of a larger group of alpha hydroxyl acids, derived from natural sources such as fruit and milk. It is used in varying concentrations as a light but prescription-strength peeling solution to reduce visible signs of aging and sun damage.
A single glycolic acid peel performed in your plastic surgeon’s office may produce the freshening effect you are looking for. Many patients, however, elect to undergo a series of light peels to achieve greater improvement. A prescription strength glycolic acid cream or lotion may also be recommended for home use. Glycolic acid preparations work beneath the skin’s surface to help loosen and eliminate damaged skin cells, unclog pores and impart a healthier glow. Glycolic acid creams and lotions may sometimes include bleaching agents that further improve irregular pigmentation.
Retin-A
Retin-A is another home treatment frequently prescribed by plastic surgeons. Used for many years as an acne treatment, Retin-A also has been shown to be effective in reducing skin damage caused by excessive sun exposure. Tretinoin, the active ingredient in Retin-A, promotes exfoliation and accelerates skin renewal.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is effective in reducing fine lines, crow’s feet, age spots, acne and other surface imperfections by superficially abrading the skin. It can also be used on the neck, upper chest and the backs of your hands to improve skin texture and minimize the effects of sun damage. A hand-held wand directs a stream of micro-crystals and suction to gently “polish” your skin, giving your complexion a healthy-looking glow. Each session takes from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the areas being treated. An initial series of weekly sessions often is recommended, followed by periodic maintenance treatments.
Although your skin may be slightly pink or sensitive immediately following a revitalizing treatment, in most cases you should be able to return immediately to work or social activities.
Illustrations from left to right: 1. A glycolic acid peel is a light treatment that gently penetrates the uppermost layers of your skin to reduce the visible effects of aging and sun damage. 2. Microdermabrasion is a popular technique that uses a stream of micro-crystals and suction to gently “polish” your skin, giving your complexion a healthy-looking flow.
Contact Us for More Information
For confidential personalized information and advice, please complete our information request form or call us at 1-800-640-0290 during business hours: Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST. LATE AFTERNOON & EVENING HOURS NOW AVAILABLE .
The Plastic Surgery Center of Manchester, New Hampshire specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery, including body lifts, breast enlargements, breast lifts, breast reductions, eyelid surgery, ear surgery, facelifts, fat grafting, liposuction, neck and chin surgery, rhinoplasty (nose surgery), surgery after massive weight loss, and tummy tucks. We also offer facial rejuvenation (chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing, Obagi Blue Peels, Glycolic Peels, Microdermabrasion), injectables (Botox) and facial fillers (Radiesse and Restylane) and advanced skin care to patients from all over New England (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts). While no responsible practitioner gives guarantees for the work they do on the human body, we can at least reassure you that you will receive the expertise and dedication of over 30 years in practice. Our patients become an important part of our family and we try to get to know each patient individually and customize their treatment to meet their desires.
