What is it? Skin care is a branch of Plastic Surgery that deals with the medical treatment of skin problems such as blemishes, photo aging, wrinkles, and acne.

What does it accomplish?

As Plastic surgeons we see many patients who come to us to look better and healthier. However, any part of the body that is visible will have skin and as a result treatment of the skin is part and parcel of rejuvenative procedures. With the use of medically tested skin care products we can help your skin retrieve its natural and healthy look. Many of these products are combined with medications such as Retin-A or Hydroquinone that help treat sun damaged skin. With the appropriate skin care product and the right combination of medications you may be able to slow down the aging process and help your skin look healthier, smoother, and with less uneven pigmentation.

What happens during the first consultation?

In the first consultation you will get a chance to discuss your concerns with our patient care coordinators and Dr, Marefat. We will tell you what you need to know about your procedure and will help you determine what is best for you.   You will receive information booklets, review before and after photographs, and receive pricing on the procedures.

How is it used?  

Skin care products are used on a regular basis. The regimen will depend on the extent of sun damage and photo aging present. If your problems are not very severe you may only need to use it as aggressively. However the beneficial effect of many of these products is dependent on consistent, regular usage. In other words, if you use them sporadically you will not see a positive change in your skin.

Procedure: Skin Care continued

What can I expect after using these products?

There is no significant tissue reaction with the use of skin care products. However, you should expect to see some initial irritation and redness in your skin. You will also have considerable peeling or shedding of the dead skin in the first several weeks that you start on your skin care regimen. You do not need to take time off of work with these products.   But the peeling and shedding of the skin is bothersome to some people who do not want to draw attention to themselves. You must be able to tolerate this initial peeling if you want to get a positive result. Retin-A does create new vessel growth to the skin and gives a blush to the face. As this blush eventually goes away however you will always have a healthy glow to your skin as long as use Retin-A with your skin care products. You will also remain very sensitive to sunlight and therefore using sun block and protecting of the skin from direct sunlight is advocated.

How many visits do I have after surgery?

We like to see our patients frequently after surgery. You are seen by the doctor or nurse within 2-3 days of surgery. Then the normal routine is 1 week, 1month, 3 months.6months, and 12 months after you start your skin care program. Of course if there is a need, you are seen as many times as necessary. We encourage our patients to come for routine follow-up visits every 3-5 years.

When can I cover my bruises with make-up?

You will not have any bruising with skin care products. However, we do not recommend your putting makeup on your face to cover the redness that is present in the first several weeks after you start your program.

Am I a good candidate?

The ideal candidate for skin products are those who have minor skin lines and wrinkles, irregular pigmentation of the skin, and photo damaged skin. In addition people who suffer from acne are good candidates for using skin care products. There is no definite age category when the regimen should be started. We have used skin care products on both young and old patients. You must have realistic expectations regarding the improvement that can be achieved with skin care products.

Procedure: Skin Care continued

Who is not a candidate for these products?

If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant you should not use Retin-A products. If you have any allergies against the products you will not be a candidate for this treatment.

How much do the products cost?

The cost of products varies but here are some guidelines that will help you determine roughly what you could expect. Remember that these are only rough estimates . These estimations include the cost of the products plus your initial visit. Subsequent visits are charged to you as a minimal office visit. The fee may be subject to change without notice. The best way for you get an accurate cost analysis is to see a doctor.

Obagi Skin Care Products     $375

How do I pay for the products?      

You can pay for the products by certified check, Credit card, or cash. Payments are expected when you receive the products.

Are there scars?

No.

Does it hurt?

No. You may experience irritation and stinging from the Retin-A in the early phases of your treatment

Are medical photographs taken?  

Yes. In all cosmetic and reconstructive cases medical photos are taken. Photographs are mandatory because this is the only way for us to compare you before and after results. Photographs in plastic surgery serve much the same role that x-rays serve for orthopedic surgery.

Date Revised: 1/23/07

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