Ultrapulse carbon dioxide laser resurfacing and facial cosmetic surgery

Over 100 patients have been treated with the ultrapulse carbon dioxide laser since July 1994. The high power square wave pulse of 600 watts at less than 1 msec (which is less than the thermal relaxation time of tissue) dissipates heat during vaporization, thus producing a ‘cold beam’ and decreasing thermal injury. Similarly, hemostatic incision may be achieved by the focus beam at short repetition rates allowing incision with simultaneous coagulation of small vessels. Seventy-four patients underwent resurfacing for rhytides and photo aging with excellent cosmetic results and no texture or pigmentary change. Facial cosmetic surgery (facelift/eyelid lift/forehead lift) was accomplished in 41 patients using the laser scalpel. Patient selection, preparation, sequence of the laserbrasion and incisional techniques are summarized.