The efficacy of single treatment of fractionated CO2 laser to improve scars in rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: The formation of scars is fairly inevitable after open rhinoplasty and alar base procedures. Oftentimes, patients exhibit insecurities or discomfort at the appearance of these scars. CO2 laser resurfacing has been proposed as an effective treatment to minimize the appearance of surgical scars. Objective: To demonstrate the effectiveness of fractionated CO2 laser in the minimization of the appearance of surgical scars. Methods: Retrospective analysis of a rhinoplasty surgeon’s database as well as blinded grading of 54 consecutive alar wedge scars using Vancouver Scar Scales. Results: No complications were seen with the use of fractionated CO2 lasers as a treatment on rhinoplasty scars. No difference was seen in scar appearance, including scar height, vascularity, pliability, and scar height after one treatment of CO2 laser. Conclusion: A single treatment of fractionated CO2 laser does not improve scars. Multiple sessions of fractionated CO2 laser could be a more effective treatment for the appearance of surgical scars.