Skin Resurfacing

Aging, genetics, and environmental factors such as sun exposure and our habits (alcohol, nutrition, smoking) can influence skin texture, the amount of facial wrinkling and uneven pigmentation.

Skin resurfacing, just like all other cosmetic endeavors, needs to be customized to fit your particular skin type and problem. What is best for you is not necessarily what is best for someone else.

Dr. McCafferty will analyze your skin and your goals and recommend the appropriate skin resurfacing option for you. Common skin resurfacing options include chemical peels and laser resurfacing:

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are typically categorized by the type and strength of chemical that is used, and the extent of treatment that must be done. They generally fall into one of two categories: Light Peels or Medium and Deep Peels.

Light Peels. Light peels are generally alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) such as glycolic, lactic, or fruit acid. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can also provide a light peel in low concentrations. These are superficial peels and generally performed by our Esthetician as part of an overall skincare program. There is minimal to no down time, hence, the term "lunch-time" peel.
Medium or Deep Peels. These are generally performed with more highly concentrated trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or Phenol (considered the gold-standard for deep skin resurfacing). These are the strongest peels and are used to treat significant or deep wrinkles. The whole face, or regions of the face, can be treated-- with the lower eyelids and areas around the mouth and chin being the most common. Phenol peels are often performed with eyelid and facelift surgery to enhance overall facial rejuvenation. The effects of these peels are long lasting and, specifically peeling with Phenol, has proven effective in clinical studies spanning over 30 years. The healing time with these peels vary from 4-10 days depending on the treatment plan Dr. McCafferty feels best suits your condition. Normal activities may resume once you have healed. The quality of your skin will improve over 3-6 months and appropriate skincare during this time will be recommended.

Fraxel II Laser

This laser has been approved by the FDA for soft tissue coagulation, skin-resurfacing procedures, and for correction of periorbital wrinkles and pigmented lesions, including age spots, melasma and sun spots. Besides the facial treatment, the Fraxel II laser has received FDA approval for use on the entire body.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing, like the medium or deep peel, treats deep wrinkles and significantly sun damaged skin. Utilizing a specialized laser guided by computer technology the skin can be treated to varying and specific depths depending on the severity of wrinkles, sun damage, pigmentation changes or scarring. Like the medium or deep peel, the whole face can be treated or just certain regions of the face. Frequently, regional laser therapy will be recommended with eyelid or facelift surgery to enhance overall facial rejuvenation. The healing time with laser is 4-10 days depending on the depth of the treatment, and after this time you may return to normal activity. The quality of your skin will improve over three to six months and appropriate skincare will be recommended to you during this time.

Laser Hair Removal

Our FDA-approved laser provides permanent hair reduction using state-of-the art, high-power diode technology. This is a rapid, non-invasive treatment that removes unwanted hair on both women and men with virtually no patient downtime.

One or a combination of the above treatments may be recommended to provide you with the best possible results.

Click here to learn more about our skin treatment services.


Leo R. McCafferty, M.D., F.A.C.S. Shadyside Place · 580 South Aiken Avenue, Suite 530 · Pittsburgh, PA 15232 1-412-687-2100 © Leo R. McCafferty, M.D., F.A.C.S