A Prospective Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcomes after Facial Laser Resurfacing

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Laser resurfacing is a popular minimally invasive option for facial and neck skin rejuvenation.
• Limited outcome data exists despite its widespread use.
• This study evaluates patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for a specific laser skin rejuvenation approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of laser skin rejuvenation using patient-reported outcomes.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction with facial appearance and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) post-procedure.
• To document adverse effects associated with laser resurfacing.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of adult patients undergoing first-time facial laser resurfacing (March 2023 - February 2024).
• Utilized broadband light and hybrid Er:YAG/thulium laser or hybrid thulium fractional laser.
• Assessed PROs using 10 FACE-Q surveys during early and late recovery; compared pre- and post-treatment responses using a paired student's t-test.

Main Results:

• 71 patients (mean age 56) were analyzed; 69% were female.
• Significant improvements observed in facial (p < 0.001) and skin (p < 0.001) appearance scores.
• Most patients experienced transient early recovery symptoms (tightness, swelling, discomfort) and reported high overall satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Patients expressed high satisfaction with laser skin rejuvenation outcomes, particularly regarding facial appearance and HRQOL.
• The procedure demonstrated effectiveness in improving skin aesthetics.
• Adverse effects were minimal and resolved over time, supporting laser resurfacing as a valuable rejuvenation technique.