Cutaneous laser resurfacing

Cutaneous resurfacing with the new generation of carbon dioxide and erbium lasers has recently come into favor for the treatment of facial rhytides, photodamage, and scarring. The precise control of these resurfacing lasers over the extent of tissue vaporization minimizes thermal damage to the skin while maximizing therapeutic efficacy. Proper use of resurfacing lasers is contingent upon a complete understanding of their clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural effects, as well as an appreciation of the principles of laser safety. An organized approach to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of the patient undergoing laser resurfacing will be provided, including a discussion of prevention and treatment of postoperative side effects and complications. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1999;41:365-89.)

At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with the clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural effects of resurfacing lasers and be able to discuss the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of patients undergoing laser resurfacing.