Laser Skin Resurfacing

The ability to perform a hemostatic dermal injury of varying depths for defects of different size and configurations and produce consistent results is a distinct advantage of laser resurfacing compared to dermabrasion or topical caustic agents. Excellent results are attainable with chemical peels, although depigmentation can be a problem with deep wrinkle ablation (Figure 5–1). While resurfacing was performed with carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers in the 1980s, recent acceptance is due in part to the advanced delivery systems available. These include those made by Coherent, Heraeus, Luxor, Sharplan, and Tissue Technology.