THE DEEP OBAGI PEEL AS EXPERIENCED BY THE SURGEON

During my cosmetic surgery training, one of my mentors was Dr. Obagi, a Los Angeles cosmetic surgeon. Since I had facial acne scars, I asked him to perform a deep T.C.A. peel. I was given Valium and other medications, and the peeling solution was painted on. I had some pain when I woke up, but it was not too bad. The recovery process involved a very swollen face for several weeks, but my skin came out baby-soft and smooth with much improved acne scars.

Peeling does not usually remove all scars, so I didn’t expect perfection. I looked much better after the procedure. I remember thinking as I was standing in my front lawn looking out at Los Angeles that if I had trained anywhere else I probably would not have had this adventure. But the results were delightful and I am now able to tell my patients what the recovery is like from a personal perspective.

Since that time, laser peeling has largely replaced T.C.A. peeling for Los Angeles Cosmetic Surgery patients. It’s a bit more predictable, with easier recovery times. But we still use T.C.A. sometimes, as it’s cheaper and gives nice results for selected patients.