Efficacy of the carbon dioxide fractional laser in the treatment of compound and dermal facial nevi using with dermatoscopic follow-up

Abstract

Background: Surgical excision for nevi can produce scar formation. Treatment of compound and dermal nevi, especially on the face, can be challenging.

Objectives: The study objectives included an assessment of the efficacy and safety of the CO₂ fractional laser for removing compound and dermal nevi and usefulness of dermoscopy for the monitoring of the nevus.

Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 330 patients with 684 facial nevi. CO₂ fractional laser was performed at 2-month intervals until complete clearance occurred. The global assessment scale (GAS) scores were used to assess the overall results.

Results: Five-hundred fifty-four nevi (81%) were successfully treated in one session. Eighty-nine (13%) and 34 (5%) required second and third sessions, respectively. Only seven (1%) required >3sessions. At the end of one year, patients’ (87%) and physicians’ (85%) GAS scores were rated as excellent and good, respectively. At the one year follow-up, fibrosis in 20 patients (3%), recurrences in 15 (2%), dimples in 12 (2%), scars in 12 (2%), hyperpigmentation in 8 (1.5%), and hypopigmentation in 6 (1%) were observed as side effects.

Conclusions: CO₂ laser produced excellent cosmetic results, led to high patient satisfaction, and could be easily performed. Dermoscopy can be helpful for long-term follow-up.

Keywords:

• Ablative laser
• dermatoscopy
• melanocytic nevus

Disclosure statement

Author confirms that he has no interest with any commercial company.