Purpose

To improve the quality of ageing skin such as tightening and removal of pigmented spots and fine wrinkles.

Details

Medically employed chemicals may be able to achieve whitening, exfoliation and some tightening effects to give a refreshed look.

More effective intervention can be achieved with the use of suitable forms of intense light, radiofrequency and/or laser therapy. The exact choice of the suitable modality should be decided by the treating doctor in accordance to the indications in a particular patient. A sequential combination of modalities may be warranted.

Often the case in plastic surgery and especially relevant in this facet of treatment, clinical photography is essential to compare pre- and post-treatment improvements.

Caution

Potential patients should take note of the followings and consult with their doctor accordingly: multiplicity of treatment sessions, incomplete removal, risk of scarring, risk of infection, risk of reactivation of herpes, risk of changes in pigmentation, downtime, paradoxical darkening of treated lesion, necessity for sunblock after treatment, risk of prolonged erythema, allergic reactions to topical agents, need for wound care after treatment.