Fractional photothermolysis for the treatment of surgical scars: a case report.
BACKGROUND
Surgical scars are a challenging condition to treat. Fractional photothermolysis provides a promising new modality for treatment.


METHODS
A 55-year-old white female patient with a surgical scar on the chin was treated with fractional photothermolysis (1550 nm Fraxel SR laser). A single treatment session was performed at pulse energy of 8 mJ (MTZ) and a final density of 2000 MTZ/cm2. The treatment response was assessed by comparing pre- and 2-week post-treatment clinical photography.


RESULTS
A greater than 75% clinical improvement of scarring was achieved at 2 weeks after a single treatment based on independent physician assessment. No significant adverse effects were noted. The improvement was persistent at 1-month follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
Fractional photothermolysis offers a new, effective, and safe modality for the treatment of surgical scars.
Behroozan
Daniel S
DS
DermSurgery Associates, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Goldberg
Leonard H
LH
Dai
Tianhong
T
Geronemus
Roy G
RG
Friedman
Paul M
PM
D017439:Cicatrix, Hypertrophic / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000379:methods*; D011183:Postoperative Complications