Skin Resurfacing Questions

Q - What is skin resurfacing?
Facial skin resurfacing refers to several different procedures, including chemical peels, laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, which are able to revitalize the skin. These procedures can improve the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, melasma and freckles.

Q - What is a chemical peel?
A chemical peel is a procedure which uses a chemical solution to peel away the top layers of skin. The skin is left smoother and rejuvenated. There are three types of chemical peels which include, from the mildest to the strongest, alphahydroxy acid (AHA) peels, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels, and phenol peels.

Q - What is dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a procedure which mechanically removes the top layer of skin through a method of controlled surgical scraping with a high speed rotating brush. Deeper scars and wrinkles can be treated.

Q - What is laser skin resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a procedure which uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser device to vaporize the top layer of skin. Wrinkles, sun damage, acne scarring and pre-cancerous skin can be treated.

Q - Is skin resurfacing right for me?
If you are a healthy individual who is looking to improve the appearance of aged skin, then a skin resurfacing procedure may be right for you.

Q - What does a consultation for skin resurfacing entail?
During a consultation for skin resurfacing, your face will be examined, a thorough medical history taken, and your goals discussed. A treatment plan will be recommended and all aspects of the procedure will be explained including the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - Where are skin resurfacing procedures performed?
Dr. Naderi performs some skin resurfacing procedures in his office and others in INOVA system hospitals which include Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, Fairfax Hospital, and Mt. Vernon Hospital.  

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for skin resurfacing?
Skin resurfacing procedures may be performed with MAC (monitored anesthesia care) or local anesthesia.  

Q - What is the recovery like after skin resurfacing?
Patients can expect a recovery of about three to five days after a milder skin resurfacing procedure such as an AHA or TCA peel. Deeper resurfacing procedures may take about ten days. Some swelling and redness may occur, and the treatment area may develop a crust. Redness can last for up to four weeks. Ointments will need to be applied during the recovery period. 

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing a skin resurfacing procedure?
Most patients are able to return to work within one to two weeks.

Q - Are skin resurfacing procedures covered by insurance?
Insurance generally does not cover skin resurfacing procedures which are solely cosmetic in nature, though some degree of coverage may be available when treating major deformities or skin injuries. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: