Laser Resurfacing: Observations and Variations

Abstract

Laser resurfacing has become increasingly popular among cosmetic surgeons and the public during the last decade. Numerous brands and types of lasers are available. Countless choices of postsurgical wound care methods and mechanisms are available. New technology and variable practice patterns have resulted in less standardized care. Here, several areas of current ambiguity or controversy regarding laser resurfacing are discussed. These include the nature of the resurfacing result - controlled scarification yielding a desirable outcome versus uncontrolled scarification yielding a poor outcome, the role of antibiotics in the pre- and post-operative periods, and the use of resurfacing after a face-lift.