Non‐ablative scar revision using a long pulsed frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser

OBJECTIVE: Unsightly scars often are the only reminder of a previous surgical or traumatic wound. Surgical or ablative scar revision is sought by patients, sometimes unnecessarily. When the aesthetic drawback is mainly a result of hypervascularity or hyperpigmentation, these problems can be specifically targeted with a wavelength that is well absorbed by the two above mentioned chromophores. Some degree of epidermal tightening can also be achieved, which is sometimes useful in slightly atrophic scars.The average improvement after 2–3 sessions was 81% (75%–100%) clearance, as judged by an independent observer who reviewed pre‐ and post‐treatment photographs. No undesired effects were reported. All our patients were satisfied and required no further treatment.METHODS: Selective photothermolysis by means of a long pulsed frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser (DioLite™ 532, IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA) was used to eliminate the unsightly vascular and pigmented components of 23 mature scars (scars olde...