title: Basics of Lasers: History, Physics, and Clinical Applications.
abstract: Lasers are increasingly used by plastic surgeons to address issues such as wrinkles and textural changes, skin laxity, hyperpigmentation, vascularity, and excess fat accumulation. A fundamental understanding of the underlying science and physics of laser technology is important for the safe and efficacious use of laser in medical settings. The purpose of this article was to give clinicians with limited exposure to lasers a basic understanding of the underlying science. In that manner, they can confidently make appropriate decisions as to the best device to use on a patient (or the best device to purchase for a practice).
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
authors.forename: Philipp
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Franck
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
authors.forename: Peter W
authors.initials: PW
authors.lastname: Henderson
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, New York Presbyterian - Weill Cornell Medical Center, 525 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA. Electronic address: kor@rothausmd.com.
authors.forename: Kenneth O
authors.initials: KO
authors.lastname: Rothaus
mesh_terms: D055592:Biophysical Phenomena; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000628:therapy; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers / Q000266:history; D061214:Patient Safety; D012060:Rejuvenation; D015595:Skin Aging
keywords: Fractional laser; Laser; Laser safety; Laser-tissue interaction