Cincinnati Plastic Surgery Specialists in Chemical Peel – TCA Peel
Thank you for considering UC Health Plastic Surgery for your plastic surgery procedure. We offer a safe, comfortable atmosphere in our modern, state-of-the-art facility located in West Chester, Ohio, convenient to both Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio. The Chemical Peel – TCA Peel – procedure is conveniently performed right in our well-equipped procedure rooms. We offer a friendly staff of nurses and administrative support to help with your scheduling issues and questions.
What is a Trichloracetic Acid Peel?
Chemical peels using trichloracetic acid (TCA) remove layers of skin to smooth texture, correct discolorations, and improve skin imperfections. Commonly used as a medium deep peel, the depth of treatment depends on factors such as the length of time the solution remains on the skin and the amount of pressure used when applying it. Fine lines, superficial acne blemishes, brown spots, and sun damaged skin can all be treated with the TCA peel. This peel can be repeated to achieve optimal results.
Procedure Benefits
- Diminishes fine lines
- Evens skin tone
- Smooths skin texture
- Stimulates new collagen
Private Consultation
Our skin care specialist, in our conveniently located Cincinnati offices, will begin your consultation with a skin evaluation and Visia Complexion Analysis, which uses high-definition photography of your skin to measure tone, texture, fine lines, pores, and sun spots. This is the foundation of your individualized skin care plan. Your doctor will examine your skin and review your medical history including medications and lifestyle factors to determine if a TCA peel is the right treatment for you. Your doctor will then discuss the procedure and what level of results you may expect.
Preparation
You may be required to pre-treat with Retin-A, pigment suppression or AHA creams usually starting one month before your TCA peel procedure. You should wear loose, comfortable clothing when coming to the office the day of your procedure. You should also arrange to clear your schedule for about 5-7 days after your peel. A medication may be prescribed if you are prone to having cold sores or herpes infection.
Procedure Overview
The TCA peel is performed in our private procedure room at . In some cases, an oral medication is prescribed to reduce discomfort. The skin is cleansed and prepped to receive the TCA, which is applied to one section of the face at a time. The skin will feel hot for several minutes, but a fan may be used to reduce the hot feeling. The skin slowly begins to turn white or frost. The visible frost is an indication of the level of treatment the peel will achieve. When all sections of the face are treated, ice compresses are usually used to cool the skin. An ointment is then applied to the treated area.
Recovery and Healing Time
Patients can expect the treated area to be red like a sunburn and have some swelling. Your surgeon may advise you to keep your head elevated and relaxed for a couple of days after your peel procedure. You can expect the outer layer of skin to shed for about three days, and the complete healing process to take 10-14 days. You can begin light exercise in 2-3 days, but you should avoid strenuous activity. You will be given special instructions on proper cleansing and moisturizing of your skin during this healing period. Avoid direct sun exposure for several weeks up to three months following a TCA peel, depending on the advice of your surgeon. Sunscreen should be used as part of your daily routine.
Procedure Risks
- Infection
- Hypopigmentation (skin lightening)
- Hyperpigmentation (skin darkening)
- Scarring
UC Health Plastic Surgery in West Chester, has three nationally recognized Cincinnati plastic surgeons.
Located north of Cincinnati, we serve West Chester, Mason, Loveland, Indian Hill and the rest of Greater Cincinnati and Dayton for all of their plastic surgery procedure needs.
