Description
Face Peel or Chemosurgery is a chemical procedure to remove fine skin surface wrinkles that occur around the eyelids, upper and lower lips, and the forehead. These wrinkles are the result of constant action of the facial muscles where they attach to the underside of the skin. Fine surface lines also occur when the skin becomes sun damaged, losing its normal elasticity.

This procedure should not be confused with the surgical Face-Lift. It will not remove fullness, folds or sagging, just as the surgical procedure alone cannot remove the fine skin surface lines. The Face Peel procedure is often used in conjunction with the Face-Lift, either performed with the surgery or as a secondary procedure. Medium and superficial peels are now available.

Procedure
A prepared solution is applied to the skin, developing a thin crust to a controlled depth. Removal of this crust peels the upper layers of skin. Fine wrinkle lines decrease or disappear, leaving the skin surface quite smooth. Most superficial peel patients are presentable the next day. Most deep peel patients in 7-10 days.

Considerations
Although the Face Peel is a chemical treatment, not a surgical procedure, there are several factors to consider:

• discomfort may last for several days
• crusting, tightness and redness will last ten to fourteen days
• frequent pink discoloration may last three to four weeks
• treated skin may appear slightly more pale and fair permanently
• partial treatments may result in pigment changes compared with untreated skin close by
• in darkly pigmented or oily skin, unfavorable discoloration may result especially if exposed to sunlight
• exposure to direct sunlight within six to eight weeks following treatment may result in unfavorable discoloration