Ultrapulse carbon dioxide laser with CPG scanner for full-face resurfacing for rhytids, photoaging, and acne scars.

Author(s): Apfelberg DB

Affiliation(s): Atherton Plastic Surgery Center, Calif., USA.

Publication date & source: 1997-06, Plast Reconstr Surg., 99(7):1817-25.

Publication type:

Eleven female patients are reported who underwent full-face resurfacing. Three patients were treated for cosmetic rhytids, five for residual acne scarring, and three for photoaging. There were no complications or side effects in this group of patients. Reepithelialization was achieved in an average of 9.3 days, and erythema disappeared in an average of 8.9 weeks. The UltraPulse carbon dioxide laser with computerized pattern generator (CPG) scanner allows a rapid, uniform laserbrasion. The sequence of the procedure involves close application of adjacent squares at 60 W, 200 to 300 ml, at moderate density. Skin preparation with Retin-A and bleaching agents is important for best wound healing. Postoperative wound care includes maintenance of a moist environment and Zovirax for herpes prophylaxis.