Skin

Skin Resurfacing Procedures

Chemical Peel

Aging facial skin experiences wrinkling, blemishes and uneven pigmentation. Chemical peels use various chemical solutions to improve and smooth the texture of the skin by removing the outer layers. The most superficial peel formula is alphahydroxy acid (AHA), such as glycolic, lactic or fruit acids. These agents freshen and improve skin texture with little to no recovery time. A more penetrating, medium-depth chemical peel, such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), gives a more dramatic result but may require several successive treatments. Phenol is a strong chemical causing a deep peel but is not used by Dr. Parva. Dr. Parva primarily uses the Obagi Blue Peel, which is safe and effective. Pre-treating the skin prior to any chemical peel is important. Also, keep in mind that chemical peels only address the skin surface and are not a substitute for a facelift, which tightens and repositions loose skin and soft tissue.

Dermabrasion

Surface irregularities, such as wrinkles, acne and other scars, may be softened by dermabrasion. A high-speed rotary wheel is used to mechanically scrape the top skin layers. The procedure may take a few minutes to one hour with healing and return to work in two weeks. Potential risks include abnormal color changes and scarring. Redness may take 3 months to fade and sun exposure should be avoided for 6 to12 months.

Skin and Post-Traumatic Reconstruction

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States. Eighty percent appear on the face, head and neck. The primary cause is ultraviolet radiation from sun, sunlamps and tanning booths. Anyone can get skin cancer so any suspicious or non-healing skin lesion should be evaluated. The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma, which is also the least dangerous because of its slow growth and low probability of spread to other sites. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common kind of skin cancer and may spread to distant sites, such as lymph nodes and internal organs. It can be life threatening if not treated. A third form of skin cancer is malignant melanoma, which is rapidly increasing in incidence. This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer since it may spread throughout the body. However, if treated early, it can be cured. The important point is to note any unusual changes of the skin and have your physician perform a thorough evaluation

Scar Revision/Burn Care

The development of scars after accidents, burns or prior surgery can be unpredictable. Many factors affect the severity of scar formation, which can then vary in thickness, color and texture. No scar can be removed completely but the appearance can be improved through surgical and non-surgical techniques. Steroid injection, silicone sheeting, lasers, skin grafts and surgical revision all play a role in treating scars. Generally, a scar revision should not be entertained until at least 6 to 9 months after the initial injury.

Plastic Surgery for Men

Liposuction

Liposuction is most often sought by men to improve the abdomen and flanks (love handles). Appropriate diet and regular exercise are important in maintaining good health, but over time men have a physiologic tendency to deposit fat in the abdominal and flank areas. An important distinction between men and women is that men accumulate much of the abdominal fat within the abdomen, not just in the fat layer under the skin. Fat inside the abdomen (around the intestines) cannot be liposuctioned. Dr. Parva makes that determination during consultation so men can have a realistic expectation of the final results. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction is an excellent technique to re-contour the dense fat accumulation over the abdomen and flanks.

Non-Surgical Rejuvenation

Obagi Nu-Derm Skin Care

Parva Plastic Surgery offers the Obagi Nu-Derm skin care system; clinically tested, therapeutically proven cleansers, toners and creams which combine exfoliating acids, skin bleaching agents and an exclusive ingredient, Complex 272 (Saponins). Used in conjunction with tretinoin therapy (retin-A), the Obagi Nu-Derm system restores the natural glow and elasticity of healthy skin. Dr. Parva will prescribe Obagi products for your skin color and type. The system works on the surface of the skin to smooth roughness and correct sun damage and aged skin. It penetrates below the surface to stimulate cell renewal, improving circulation and restoring moisture. Ask about the Obagi Nu-Derm System, and treat yourself to beautiful, healthy skin.