LASER-ASSISTED RHYTIDECTOMY - A PRELIMINARY-REPORT

BACKGROUND. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a surgical tool recogniz ed for its capacity of combined simultaneous tissue transection and he mostasis without unwanted distant transmission of energy. OBJECTIVE. T o determine the potential of laser-assisted rhytidectomy. METHODS. A p reliminary group of 18 patients were treated for facial rejuvenation b y a technique of laser-assisted rhytidectomy with excellent results. R ESULTS. No major complications including hematoma were seen. CONCLUSIO N. Based on these initial findings, we conclude that laser-assisted rh ytidectomy shows great promise for better results with diminished risk s.