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

Abstract

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 older than 2 years) in 22 consecutive patients. Energy densities of 17–22 j/cm2 were used with a 500 micron spot, or 65–90 j/cm2 with a 200 micron spot.

RESULTS: overall scar clearance averaged 81% after 2.4 treatments. Facial scars showed the best clearance averaging 94% after 2 treatments. Inframammary scars were the most difficult to clear averaging 46%. Postoperative undesired effects were immediate erythema and swelling that subsided within 2–10 hours and microcrusting on 19/22 (88%) patients that resolved within one week. No other temporary or permanent undesired effects such purpura, hypo‐ or hyperpigmentation were noticed, even in patients with darker skin types.

• 532 nm
• Nd:YAG
• non‐ablative
• KTP
• scar
• scar revision