Swelling and blisters after TCA Chemical Peel

I have a tremendous amount of swelling from a medium chemical TCA Chemical Peel about 48 hours ago. White blisters have also started to appear on my forehead. Is this normal? How long for severe swelling to last? Also, I only started the Famvir (Valtex) the morning of the procedure, and have only 4 doses (two days) left. Do I need a longer regimen for that? I have had 5 pills so far.

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8 answers to “Swelling and blisters after TCA...”

A: Post TCA peel care must be taken seriously

Amir M. Karam, MD

The most important part of a peel is the post peel regimen.  In your case, I would first ask your doctor about this.  He or she would know best if this is typical in their patients. If not you should be seen right away.   Though it is rare to see a viral or bacterial infection within 48 hours... more

A: Chemical peels

Steven Wallach, MD

Blistering is not common after a medium depth chemical peel. Usually you get a bit of frosting and then the top layer of skin usually turns browns and sloughs off in a few days.  I would follow-up closely with your doctor if this is the case.

A: Post-op care for TCA Peel is critical

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Selling may easily occur after the TCA and can be reduced with the use of ice compresses. Some physicians prefer the use of anti-inflammatory agents while other physicians avoid their use. Clearly, the most important thing is to ensure that infection has not occured which can effect the results. When you say... more

A: Unusual severe reaction to TCA peel

Jordana S. Gilman, MD

It sounds like you are having an unusually severe reaction to the TCA peel. Typically, TCA peels cause the skin to turn a little white (we call this frosting), and it then crusts and peels or flakes off. It is very unusual to see water-filled blisters from a TCA peel.  Without a picture, it is difficult... more

A: You need to see your surgeon.

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello, Moderate to deep chemical peels require a fair amount of post-op care. You should be seeing your surgeon over this time period to see what needs to be changed and to assess your wound care regimen. Peel care is probably 25% giving the peel and 75% aftercare.

A: Call your doctor

Stella Desyatnikova, MD

You might have a normal reaction, or you might have a viral or bacterial infection. Call your doctor's office immediately, and have them see you today and treat you if necessary

A: Swelling can last several days following a medium-depth TCA peel

Bryan K. Chen, MD

Though blisters can occur following such a peel, rather than self-treat, I suggest you schedule an appointment immediately to see the practitioner who applied the peel in the event there is another developing infection.  The white blisters you are describing may not be HSV. Good luck.

A: You really need to provide a picture for us to give an informed answer

David Shafer, MD

EB, After TCA peels you can expect swelling and actual peeling of your skin. It is hard to tell if this is what you are describing. It would be nice if you could provide a picture. In any case, if there is any concern that something is not right, you have to contact your provider today. If you have a... more

Comments

ssanders
20 posts
22 Jan 2009

The first thing you need to do is contact your physician and go in for a re-check.  Some swelling post peel is normal.  Generally if you sleep more elevated, use cool compresses and even take Benadryl, it can help with the swelling.  The "blisters" that  you are describing would be better evaluated by your doctor.  Don't panic...sometimes we have to look a whole lot worse before we look better!  

Lisa Hagner
4 posts
26 Apr 2009

PLEASE, I need to know if your white blisters left scars? 48 hours ago I had 30% tCA spot treatment. I have white raw indented blisters. He told me to wash off the acid after 3 to 4 hours! I have sebaceous hyperplasia...Other than that I HAD beautiful skin. I AM SO SCARED!!!!!

Lisa Hagner
4 posts
26 Apr 2009

The Dermatologist That treated the spots prescribed Altabax ointment and Cerave cleanser. I have also been applying a Pycnogenol gel, vitamin E... He claims the 30% TCA never scars! Is he correct? Will I heal OK? I have also been drinking a lot of water and taking extra E and C.

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