Laser treatment for improvement and minimization of facial scars.

Cutaneous injuries that result in scar formation are relatively common, leading patients to seek treatment for cosmetic or functional improvement. Treatments that have the potential to improve or eliminate scarring include radiation therapy, surgical excision, and intralesional injections of corticosteroids, 5-flourouracil, or bleomycin. Unfortunately, these methods are associated with high recurrence rates and untoward sequelae such as skin atrophy, dyspigmentation, and pain. Laser scar revision is a safe procedure with clinically demonstrable efficacy and minimal side effects when used alone or in combination with other scar treatments. The specifics of current laser scar revision techniques are addressed in this overview. 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.