Aging Skin
MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Dermabrasion is a procedure performed by a doctor when the skin condition warrants it. A special device is used to "sand" off scarred or lined skin surfaces. Healing produces a scab. When the scab is shed, it is replaced by new, healthy skin. Often, physicians will recommend the use of tretinoin prior to, and following, a surgical procedure to help smooth out the skin.
Collagen injection and lipo-injection are temporary treatments used to even out depressions caused by deep wrinkles and scars.
Laser treatments are used to reduce superficial or moderate wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, nose and mouth. They can also be used to remove signs of photodamage such as "age spots", acne scars and precancerous lesions of the skin. Healing requires up to two weeks and the treated area may remain pink to red in colour and sensitive for as long as four months.
Surgical procedures should be discussed with your doctor. There are a variety of different approaches that can be taken. The traditional facelift tightens facial skin and removes any excess. It may be combined with a chemical peel, laser treatment, collagen injection or reconstruction. Recovery can be quite lengthy but results are generally good.
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