Chemical Peel

Pre and post operative instructions

Before surgery

1. Have you had any form of Herpes? Please be certain that we are aware to avoid any unnecessary outburst.
2. We prefer you not to drink alcohol from this day until your procedure. Alcohol ingestion increases the degree of erythema (a red flush).

After surgery

1. NO exposure to direct sunlight for 8 weeks after surgery to avoid unfavourable discolouration.
2. Expect discomfort and itching.
3. Expect tightness of the face. Symptoms invariably disappear.
4. Chemical peeling may be difficult for the patient post operatively. Patients may wish to stay out of the limelight until healing has occurred or makeup can be applied.
5. It is recommended that patients sleep upright for the first few nights to help reduce swelling.
6. No ointments should be applied.
7. After a few days the face can be washed three times daily with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Use a clean cloth each time.
8. Soft crusts will lift off in 5-10 days. At this stage a bland soap can be used and unmedicated makeup applied.
9. It is vitally important to avoid contact with persons who have any contagious skin disease like herpes simplex (fever blisters and cold sores) , shingles or chicken pox, or any other such disease. If you inadvertently come into contact with any skin disease, please notify the office immediately so we may treat you accordingly. Time is of the essence.
10. Full recovery in 6-12 weeks.
11. In spite of the horrendous initial appearance, after the first 48 hours patients cope very well.
12. All patients are strongly urged to stay out of the sun for eight weeks following treatment and use emollient sunblock (at least 15 SPF strength) if you cannot avoid exposure. Exposure may be unexpected and we highly recommend your wearing sunblock cream daily under any makeup used.

Please note this hospital has a no smoking policy.

Related surgical procedures

This web site has been prepared to give a basic understanding of the procedure before a consultation takes place, and to cover many of the questions frequently asked about this type of cosmetic surgery. Final decisions should not be made until an individual assessment has taken place with the surgeon.

There is no obligation on the part of the patient to undergo surgery by attending for consultation. If you have any further questions or would like to arrange a consultation please do not hesitate to call us.

Contact Us
Contact Cambridge Private Hospital for more information on Cosmetic Surgery.