Combined fractional ablative and nonablative laser resurfacing treatment: a split-face comparative study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Fractional ablative and nonablative lasers are established treatments for facial rejuvenation.
• Ablative lasers necessitate a recovery period for reepithelialization, potentially limiting patient compliance.
• Combining ablative and nonablative laser modalities may enhance cosmetic outcomes while minimizing downtime and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of a combined fractional ablative and nonablative laser procedure against ablative-only laser treatments for facial rejuvenation.

Main Methods:

• Eight subjects underwent split-face procedures comparing combined 1,440-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) and 2,940-nm erbium (Er):YAG lasers to ablative Er:YAG or fractional CO2 lasers.
• Treatments were assessed over a 3-month period for side effects, wrinkle improvement (Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Score), and pigmentation changes.

Main Results:

• All laser techniques demonstrated improvements in wrinkles and pigmentation, with comparable results across methods.
• The combined fractional nonablative and ablative laser treatment group exhibited a reduction in immediate side effects.

Conclusions:

• Combined fractional 2,940-nm ablative and 1,440-nm nonablative laser therapy achieves results comparable to purely ablative methods for facial rejuvenation.
• The combined approach, including sequential confluent fractional Er:YAG or fractional CO2 lasers, offers a favorable safety profile.
• Reduced side effects make combination laser therapy a compelling choice for facial rejuvenation procedures.