When considering whether or not to have reconstructive surgery or cosmetic procedure of any type, it is important to know what to look for in a plastic surgeon. The first piece of information to verify is if the surgeon is board certified.  The surgeon should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and may have additional certifications depending on their specialty. Having trouble finding a plastic surgeon in Dallas who can perform chemical peels for scarring? Look no further than Dr. Stephanie Teotia.

At Dr. Teotia’s office, you will be able to view before and after pictures of her patients’ chemical peel results. This will allow you to get a good feel for her skill level before your procedure date. She will also sit down with you to explain how the process of a chemical peel works, and if you are a good candidate.

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel procedure involves resurfacing the skin by applying a chemical solution to remove the top layers of skin. The solution causes the skin to “blister” and peel off, revealing new skin that is smoother and more even-toned. Because chemical peels can be used for various reasons, the type of peel used depends on the desired outcome.

Chemical peels are frequently used to:

• Decrease fine wrinkles around the mouth caused by sun damage and aging
• Treat types of acne
• Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches that result from pregnancy or birth control pills,
• Improve the appearance of scars

Chemical peels can be used to treat quite a variety of skin issues; therefore, three types of peels exist.  The first is a light chemical peel which is used to remove the outer layer of the skin, also known as the epidermis. This kind of peel can be used to treat acne, fine wrinkles, uneven skin tone and dryness.  This procedure can be done once a week for six weeks to achieve the desired results.

A medium-strength chemical peel can be used to remove cells from the epidermis and from areas of the upper part of the middle layer of skin (dermis). This peel strength is used to treat acne scars, moderate wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

A deep chemical peel uses the strongest chemical solution; this strength is effective at treating deeper wrinkles, scars, or even precancerous growths. This level of chemical peel can remove cells all the way from the epidermis to the middle and even lowest (deepest) portions of the dermis.

Certain people are better candidates for chemical peel procedures than others.  Though darker-skinned people can have good chemical peel results, in general, fair-skinned and light-haired individuals have a higher chance of a better outcome. It is possible for someone with dark skin to experience uneven skin tone after the procedure. Dr. Stephanie Teotia may suggest against chemical peels if you have a history of frequent cold sores, facial warts, freckled skin/red hair, abnormal skin pigmentation or take certain medications.

Like most procedures, it is possible to have side effects after a chemical peel, although most of these effects are temporary. It is typical for the treated skin to appear red while it is healing. If a medium or deep chemical peel is performed, skin will remain red for a longer period. There is a small chance of scarring, but in general scars are not experienced if the patient carefully adheres to post-procedure instructions.  The Carbolic acid (phenol) used in deep chemical peels can cause an irregular heartbeat which is why it is only applied in increments of 10 to 20 minutes.  The risks are minimal, but it is necessary to be aware of them.

Chemical peels are performed in Dr. Stephanie Teotia’s outpatient plastic surgery office. Before the procedure, Dr. Teotia will clean your face and cover your eyes with protective goggles or tape. A light peel does not require anesthesia, but if you are having a medium peel, you will most likely have the option of a sedative. For deep chemical peels, you will be provided with some type of sedative or local anesthetic.

The type of peel you have will determine how long swelling and redness lasts and if you will need pain medication post-procedure. For comfort, you can use ice packs or over-the-counter pain relievers. It is also imperative to stay out of the sun for several months after a chemical peel because your skin will still be healing and will be more sensitive. Dr. Stephanie Teotia will provide you with all necessary precautions, healing techniques, and will make sure to schedule a check-up to monitor how well you are healing after your procedure.