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Semin Plast Surg 2012; 26(03): 131-136
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1329417
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Laser Resurfacing Pearls

Sonia Shah
1   Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
,
Murad Alam
1   Department of Dermatology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
2   Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
3   Department of Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
01 November 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Ablative skin resurfacing using the carbon dioxide laser was long considered the gold standard for treatment of photoaging, acne scars, and rhytids. However, conventional full-face carbon dioxide resurfacing is associated with significant risk of side effects and a prolonged postoperative recovery period. Fractional resurfacing has recently revolutionized laser surgery by offering close to comparable results with minimal side effects and a more rapid recovery. Although fractional devices have grown in popularity, and have essentially replaced traditional resurfacing, fractional resurfacing can still be a challenging modality to control precisely due to hardware variations across comparable devices, the range of settings that can be used, and patient-specific considerations. Certain precautions and rules of thumb can reduce the risk associated with fractional resurfacing, and increase the likelihood of a good outcome.

Keywords

skin resurfacing - ablative - nonablative - fractional lasers
 

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