Long-term results of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing of the face.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of, and the complications associated with, carbon dioxide laser treatment of rhytidosis and solar aging.

METHODS: This retrospective report describes our experience with 47 patients who underwent entire facial carbon dioxide laser resurfacing.

RESULTS: The mean improvement in facial rhytid score at long-term follow-up was 45%. This improvement was consistent in all facial subsites. With the exception of 1 case of hyperpigmentation, which resolved within 2 years of treatment, hypopigmentation was the only long-term adverse effect. This complication was present in 6 patients (13%). The patients who developed hypopigmentation were more likely to have a greater response to treatment.

CONCLUSION: Our findings show that carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is a safe and effective treatment for facial rhytids.