Cutaneous resurfacing with; the new generation of carbon dioxide and erbium
lasers has recently come into favor for the treatment of facial rhytides,
photodamage, and scarring. The precise control of these resurfacing lasers
over the extent of tissue vaporization minimizes thermal damage to the skin
while maximizing therapeutic efficacy Proper use of resurfacing lasers is
contingent upon a complete understanding of their clinical, histologic, and
ultrastructural effects, as well as an appreciation of the principles of l
aser safety An organized approach to the preoperative, intraoperative, and
postoperative management of the patient undergoing laser resurfacing a-ill
be provided, including a discussion of prevention and treatment of postoper
ative side effects and complications.