Procedures: Non-Surgical
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes to produce healthy, glowing skin. There are three types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong - alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and croton - and formula strengths are tailored to each patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures such as facelifts for a younger look.
Types of Chemical Peels
AHAs are the gentlest of the three types of chemical peels. They consist of a group of glycolic, lactic and fruit acids that smooth and brighten skin by treating fine wrinkles, dryness, uneven pigmentation and acne. AHAs are typically applied once a week, or may be mixed in a milder concentration with a cream or cleanser to be used daily; treatment takes 10 minutes or less. Patients may choose AHAs if they do not want the lengthy recovery time of a croton or TCA peel. Occasionally AHAs, Retin-A (a prescription medication containing Vitamin A) or hydroquinone (a bleach solution) are used to pre-treat skin and even its tone as a pre-treatment for TCA peels. These treatments are done by Dr. Harrison's staff. You can expect smoother and more vibrant skin with the AHA peels.
TCAs are commonly used for medium-depth peeling (though depth is adjustable) to treat fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems, sometimes in combination with AHAs. TCAs are the preferred chemical solution for darker-skinned patients and may be used on the neck and other areas of the body. Results are less impressive and do not last as long as with phenol peels, and multiple treatments may be required, but treatments only last 10-15 minutes and recovery time is shorter. Dr. Harrison will help you decide if pretreatment with skin bleaches is required. These are especially good for outdoor enthusiasts.
Croton Oil, a stronger chemical peel, treats deeper skin problems such as coarse facial wrinkles, pre-cancerous growths, and areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, aging or birth-control pills. Because Croton Oil can lighten skin where it is applied, the patient’s natural pigmentation is a factor in determining eligibility. Croton Oil is used only on the face, as it may cause scarring elsewhere. Full-facial treatment can last an hour or two and recovery can take two weeks, with possible permanent skin lightening. Dr. Harrison uses a modified Croton Oil peel to lessen the risks of hypo-pigmentation common with traditional peels.
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Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive spa procedure that rejuvenates the appearance of the skin by treating sun damage, scarring, wrinkles and other unwanted skin problems. This procedure uses a gentle stream of tiny particles to exfoliate the outer layer of skin, leaving fresh, younger-looking skin and a renewed appearance.
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Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion removes a layer of surface skin to improve the appearance of facial scarring due to acne, chicken pox, injury or other causes, as well as uneven pigmentation, wrinkles, sun damage, tattoos, age spots and certain kinds of skin lesions. Local anesthetic is used and then the skin is abraded with a high speed rotary instrument for a dramatically smoother, fresher look. After the procedure it is normal to feel a sensation similar to sunburn for a week or so, at which time most patients are able to return to work. The newly revealed skin will likely appear pinker than usual for two to three months. Patients should be sure to adequately protect skin from sunlight.
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Lip Augmentation
Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure used to increase the size of the lips through surgery or injections. This procedure can be performed on the upper or lower lip, or both at the same time, and may offer temporary or permanent results depending on the type of material used. Most patients desiring larger, fuller lips are able to achieve their desired results with just one simple procedure.
Fuller lips can be achieved through several different cosmetic techniques. The best procedure for you depends on your overall health and desired results, along with several other determining factors. Dr. Harrison will discuss these factors with you to help you decide which treatment option is best for you to achieve the full lips you desire.
© 2010 Craig E. Harrison, MD, PA and MedNet Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
