Laser applications in oculoplastic surgery and their postoperative complications

Laser surgery for oculoplastic or dermatological indications--whether incisional work, removal of pigmented or vascular lesions, removal of hair, or resurfacing--necessitates that the practitioner have appropriate training in and understanding of not only the techniques but also of their advantages and disadvantages. Understanding laser safety and how to handle complications is critical to appropriate management of laser-assisted surgery. Long-term results are limited at this time, but current information regarding the use of lasers in aesthetic oculoplastic surgery appears promising. New approaches to such operations include combining more than one type of laser or combining traditional cutting blades and lasers in an effort to reduce side effects and improve outcome.