Treatment of wrinkles with the nonablative 1,320-nm Nd:YAG laser.

Ablative laser resurfacing with the CO2 and Er:YAG lasers has become a well-accepted and well-reported modality for skin rejuvenation of photoaged and photodamaged skin. However, the side effects associated with these lasers, such as exudation and crusting followed by prolonged erythema, are often socially disturbing for the patient. A nonablative 1,320-nm pulsed Nd:YAG system has been developed that controls dermal collagen damage while preserving the epidermis. Thirteen patients are presented on whom periocular wrinkle treatment was carried out during two sessions 1 month apart. Side effects were minimal. Histology showed improvement in the previously typical sun-damaged dermis. However, although physician assessment noted a trend toward macroscopic improvement, almost all patients failed to see any improvement. The authors conclude that further studies of the ideal parameters are required before the 1,320-nm Nd:YAG laser can be indicated successfully in stand-alone, nonablative wrinkle removal. In addition, patients should be selected carefully, and a complementary minimally aggressive technique should be used to restore a youthful appearance to the epidermis.