Minimizing Scars With Excision and Immediate Laser Resurfacing

The Ultrapulse ® CO 2 laser has been used extensively for cosmetic resurfacing of the skin. This modality adds the precision and depth control that peels and dermabrasion lack. With the healing model of epithelial migration, precisely coapted wound margins should heal with minimal scarring. I conducted my study with 10 patients with facial lesions and acne scarring grades I to III. Grade I covers mild, very superficial depressions; grade II is defined by moderate scarring; and in grade III, deep scars to the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Grades II and III were treated with excision and immediate laser resurfacing of the skin with minimally perceptible scars.