Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing. Long-term follow-up in 2123 patients.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing has become increasingly popular as a method of facial rejuvenation, enabling the surgeon to repair sun-damaged skin, wrinkles, and acne scars precisely. This article presents the results of the authors' histologic studies with all of the current CO2 laser systems as well as the conclusions of her experience with 2123 patients over a 5-year period. Improvements obtained from CO2 laser resurfacing appear to be long lasting, especially when combined with other procedures, and it is likely that laser resurfacing will remain in the armamentarium of facial rejuvenation for some time.