Sebaceous hyperplasia treated with a 1450-nm diode laser

Background. Sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign proliferation of the sebaceous gland. Previous treatment options have included isotretinoin, destructive modalities, and pulsed-dye laser. Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of a 1450-nm diode laser for the treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia. Methods. Ten patients with sebaceous hyperplasia were treated one to five times with a 1450-nm diode laser. Fluences of 16 to 17 J/cm2 were used, with cooling durations of 40 to 50 ms. Patients and physicians evaluated treated lesions for improvement. Measured areas of treated lesions were also recorded. Results. In most cases, patients and physicians rated improvement as “very good” or better. After two to three treatments, 84% of lesions shrunk greater than 50%, and 70% shrunk greater than 75%. Adverse effects were unusual; one atrophic scar and one case of transient hyperpigmentation were observed. Conclusion. The 1450-nm diode laser is effective and safe for the treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia.