Long-term results of ultrapulsed carbon dioxide laser resurfacing of the Mediterranean face

The Thermal Damage of Canine Vocal Fold by CO2 Laser Under Different Laser Emission Mode

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to review the differences between continuous wave (CW) and UltraPulse (UP) on thermal damage of the laser with different power.

METHODS

Four adult beagle dogs underwent transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) using CO₂ laser. The laser emission mode and power was CW (3 W, 5 W, and 8 W) and UP (3 W and 5 W), respectively. The tissue from 4 animals was evaluated histologically on postoperative days 1 and 3. The thermal damage of the laser was measured using slide scan system via SlideViewer version 1.5.5.2 software.

RESULTS

All dogs underwent TLM uneventfully. Under microscope examined, the laser damage area was composed of 2 parts: the vaporized zone (VPZ) and thermal damage area. The thermal damage area can be divided into thermal coagulative necrosis area (TCN) and hydropic degeneration area. The width of VPZ and TCN in UP mode was less than that in CW mode (P < .01). The data indicate that lower laser power created less thermal damage (P < .01). In addition, the width of VPZ on postoperative day 3 was less than that on postoperative day 1 (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

CO₂ laser with UP and lower power could decrease the laser thermal damage and may offer more prompt wound healing.

Histologic study of the structural changes in fine palpebral skin following selective photothermolysis with CO2 laser

BACKGROUND

Resurfacing using a CO(2) laser is a modern and efficient mean to treat facial wrinkles and aging. It is based on the precise vaporization of the most superficial skin layers. This study evaluated the histologic effects of the CO(2) laser on palpebral skin.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients were selected (22 females, 4 males). Their age varied from 43 to 72 years and, of these, 19 were classified as Fitzpatrick type III and 7 as Fitzpatrick type II. The superior palpebral skin was examined before the operation and 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after selective photothermolysis.

RESULTS

All the postoperative evaluations showed consistent dermal and epidermal histologic modifications, with the epidermal regeneration showing a normalized anatomy, principally in the evaluations made after approximately 1 year. The dermis presents a dramatic neocollagenous transformation in the superficial and middle dermis, as well as intense modification (restructuring) of the elastic fiber system and reduction in the glycosaminoglycans. Both passes of the laser were analyzed and also the complete healing process.

CONCLUSION

Resurfacing of the fine palpebral skin using two passes at 300 and 200 mJ produces an accentuated collagen neoformation and correction of the dermal elastosis, in association with a rapid healing process.

Long-term results of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing of the face

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of, and the complications associated with, carbon dioxide laser treatment of rhytidosis and solar aging.

METHODS

This retrospective report describes our experience with 47 patients who underwent entire facial carbon dioxide laser resurfacing.

RESULTS

The mean improvement in facial rhytid score at long-term follow-up was 45%. This improvement was consistent in all facial subsites. With the exception of 1 case of hyperpigmentation, which resolved within 2 years of treatment, hypopigmentation was the only long-term adverse effect. This complication was present in 6 patients (13%). The patients who developed hypopigmentation were more likely to have a greater response to treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show that carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment for facial rhytids.