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.