Micropeel FAQs

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Micropeel FAQs

What is a micropeel?
A micropeel, also referred to as an alpha hydroxy peel, an AHA peel, a fruit acid peel, and a lunch time peel, is a type of chemical peel. It is the mildest of the chemical solutions, providing a light exfoliation that removes a micro-thin top layer of the skin. Micropeels use alphahydroxy acids such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acids. They can provide a smoother, brighter look to the skin and treat fine wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, areas of dryness, and acne.

Are there any limitations to what a micropeel can achieve?
As the lightest of the chemical peels, micropeels may not effectively treat coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or sun damaged skin, pre-cancerous growth, or some superficial blemishes and pigment problems.

Who is the best candidate for a micropeel?
The best candidate for a micropeel is a physically healthy, psychologically stable person with realistic expectations of the procedure who wants to improve the appearance of fine wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, areas of dryness or acne.

Where can a micropeel be performed?
Most micropeels take place in a surgeon's office or in an outpatient surgical center.

Is anesthesia used during a micropeel?
Anesthesia is not required for a micropeel, which typically produces only a slight stinging sensation.

How is the actual micropeel procedure performed?
Microdermabrasion are applied to cleansed facial skin and typically take no longer than ten minutes. During application, patients may experience a stinging sensation. Micropeels typically must repeated every two months or so to maintain the results.

How long does the actual micropeel process last?
Micropeels typically take no more than ten minutes, though repeat procedures are usually required.

Is a micropeel painful?
Micropeels are generally not painful as they typically produce just a slight stinging.

What is the recovery like after a micropeel?
After a micro-dermabrasion, patients can generally expect some amount of temporary flaking or scaling, redness and dryness of the skin.

Will I need to take time off from work after a micropeel?
Patients are typically able to return to work and other normal activities right away, though the peel will result in some temporary redness, flaking and dryness. Your surgeon may recommend that you avoid sun exposure for a period of time.

How much do micropeels cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average surgeon/physician fee charged by their member doctors for chemical peels in 2004 was $607.

Does insurance cover micropeels?
Micropeels are typically not covered by insurance when performed solely for cosmetic purposes. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier regarding the degree and/or availability of coverage.

Is it possible to get a micropeel financed?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a doctor to perform my micropeel?
Some states do not require that those performing chemical peels hold medical degrees. Nevertheless, it's important that you find a doctor who is well-trained and has sufficient experience in skin resurfacing. To find a qualified plastic surgeon, make sure that he or she is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• How many micropeels has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• Is the facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

Are the results of a micropeel permanent?
Continued treatments, often two months apart, are necessary to maintain the results of a micropeel.

Micro dermabrasion skin peel treatmet.