A new multi-modal fractional ablative CO2 laser for wrinkle reduction and skin resurfacing.
BACKGROUND
The concept of fractional delivery modality of the energy with both ablative and non-ablative devices is now well known and accepted as an effective method to attain significant aesthetic improvements on facial aging skin. A new, multi-modal, fractional, ablative CO2 laser that can create, using same scanner/handpiece, deep columns in addition to superficial ablation has been recently proposed and therefore investigated.


METHODS
Twenty-four patients were enrolled in this evaluation. Each of them received one multi-modal, fractional ablative treatment. Patients were clinically and photographically evaluated at baseline and 6 months after the procedure. The degree of photoaging and the efficacy of treatment were evaluated using a VAS five-point scale of some skin features. A 3D images comparison was furthermore performed to objectify the improvements.


RESULTS
For all of the analysed skin features of photodamage a significant, statistical improvement was obtained. The data collected with the 3D system demonstrated an average improvement of 42% of the wrinkles and an average improvement of the melanin variation of 40.1%.


CONCLUSIONS
The multi-modal approach with a single handpiece allows obtaining good outcomes with a very low incidence of adverse effects and a short downtime.
Istituto Dermatologico Europeo, Laser and Surgery Department, Milano, Italy. mtretti@gmail.com
Matteo Tretti
MT
Clementoni
Rosalia
R
Lavagno
Girish
G
Munavalli
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004890:Erythema / Q000209:etiology; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D054020:Lasers, Gas / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D012060:Rejuvenation; D015595:Skin Aging; D012880:Skin Pigmentation
D002245:Carbon Dioxide