Facial Plast Surg 2014; 30(01): 055-061
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1364223
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Ablative Skin Resurfacing

Nidhi Agrawal
1   Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Greg Smith
1   Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
,
Ryan Heffelfinger
1   Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 January 2014 (online)

Abstract

Ablative laser resurfacing has evolved as a safe and effective treatment for skin rejuvenation. Although traditional lasers were associated with significant thermal damage and lengthy recovery, advances in laser technology have improved safety profiles and reduced social downtime. CO2 lasers remain the gold standard of treatment, and fractional ablative devices capable of achieving remarkable clinical improvement with fewer side effects and shorter recovery times have made it a more practical option for patients. Although ablative resurfacing has become safer, careful patient selection and choice of suitable laser parameters are essential to minimize complications and optimize outcomes. This article describes the current modalities used in ablative laser skin resurfacing and examines their efficacy, indications, and possible side effects.

 
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