Procedures

Skin Resurfacing

No gender bias here. Men and women in the Annapolis area often seek, with Dr. Sandel's consultation, skin resurfacing treatments. Dr. Sandel might recommend these procedures, not only to reduce wrinkling and skin rejuvenation, but also to remove acne-scarred skin or remove pre-cancerous skin growths or keratoses.

Skin resurfacing procedures such as chemical peel, dermabrasion or laser skin surgery cannot produce perfect skin. In your consultation with Dr. Sandel, he can discuss realistic expectations from the procedure.

Specific surgical techniques

If you have chosen a chemical peel, Dr. Sandel will apply one of several chemicals to the skin. Glycolic acid is the mildest. TCA, trichloroacetic acid, can be used in varying strengths for longer-lasting smoothness. The deepest peel is done with phenol. Any of these chemicals is applied to very clean skin to allow the deepest penetration through the epidermis to the dermis.

With dermabrasion, Dr. Sandel will use a high-speed brush to remove the top layers of skin to the level where deep wrinkles and scars may be smoothed

Ultra precise and ultra high intensity laser can be used to correct the effects of sun damage or fine lines or acne scarring. The high energy, amplified light waves of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser vaporize the top layer of skin instantly with no bleeding and minimal trauma to the surrounding skin.

After the surgery

In your preliminary consultation, Dr. Sandel will discuss the aftereffects of the various skin resurfacing procedures. With a chemical peel or dermabrasion, swelling and tightness or "crusting" are common. Dr. Sandel will recommend ways to keep the skin supple during the recovery period. He might even recommend changes in diet that could ease the strain on your facial skin.

The complete recovery period may be several weeks, and new skin tends to be lighter and pinker, thus making it more susceptible to sun damage. It is critical that you follow Dr. Sandel's recommendations to protect your new skin.

For more detailed information visit the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons website.

Contact Us at 410-266-7120, fill out the form on the right or email us at carol@sandelcenter.com to request a consultation.