The deeper, more extensive chemical peels, as with any other surgical procedure, require you to be in good health. Your doctor will take your health history and you may require a routine physical exam. You will be advised of any special things to avoid or do. Your doctor may prescribe medications to take prior to surgery to prevent a bacterial infection or outbreak of fever blisters (herpes simplex) and topical medications that help to prepare your skin for the procedure and decrease the risk of post-operative pigmentation changes. You will be asked to limit your sun exposure at least a month before the peel.
Here are a few general guidelines that you’ll probably be asked to follow:
- Don’t take aspirin or any drugs containing aspirin for at least two weeks before surgery. Aspirin can interfere with normal blood clotting.
- Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. Your stomach needs to be completely empty when undergoing anesthesia or sedation.
- Avoid drinking alcohol a few days prior to surgery.
- If you smoke, stop smoking at least a week before your procedure and for at least a week afterward. Smoking decreases blood circulation in the skin and impedes healing.
- Wear something loose that opens in the front. You don’t want to put on anything that goes over your head after the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home. Have a friend or relative stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure.
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