Dot or pointillistic method for improvement in results of hypertrophic scarring in the argon laser treatment of portwine hemangiomas.

In an attempt to limit scarring, 51 patients have been treated over a period of 2 years with the argon laser in a dot or pointillistic fashion. One- to 2-mm dots are blanched at intervals of 1-2 mm with minimal power, and the interspaces are filled in at 12 weeks. Scar-prone areas of the face such as the upper lip, nasolabial fold, nose, and lower lip have been successfully treated with minimal scarring and good fading. Lesions of the trunk and extremity have also been successfully treated.