Wound care after laser skin resurfacing. A combination of open and closed methods using a new polyethylene mask.

A new mask (N-Terface Mask) for interpositional placement in a layered dressing was evaluated. The dressings were applied to 46 patients following facial skin resurfacing with the UltraPulse carbon dioxide laser. Remarkably low postoperative pain, rapid healing, absence of crust formation, painless removal of dressing, and excellent visualization of wound bed were observed in all patients. This dressing affords the best of both open and closed wound management after laser skin resurfacing, because the mask is removed 48 hours later. Early visualization of the wound takes place allowing the surgeon to detect potential problems early enough while taking advantage of reduced pain and increased patient comfort postoperatively typical of closed wound care.