ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To determine patient satisfaction with the postoperative recovery period and surgical outcome after facial laser resurfacing. DESIGN: Survey. PATIENTS: Patients who underwent facial laser resurfacing by two of the authors (PAA or DAFE) between 1995 and 1996. Questionnaires were completed by 47 of 100 patients. INTERVENTIONS: Facial laser resurfacing with the Sharplan CO2 laser and SilkTouch Scanner. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Questionnaire. Statistical analysis was generated from a 5-point analogue scale. RESULTS: The overall side effects were moderate in severity, were well tolerated, and met the expectations of our patients. Redness was the most frequent side effect with an average duration of 3 months. Most patients returned to occupational and social activities at 2.5 weeks. Moderate lifestyle disruption was more frequent after full-face laser resurfacing than partial-face laser resurfacing. Excellent improvement was achieved for removal of fine wrinkles, improvement of skin quality, and sun-damaged skin. Good improvement was obtained for acne scarring and deep rhytids. Overall goals were attained in 89% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Laser resurfacing produced excellent results for fine rhytids, skin quality, and sun-damaged skin. Return to social and occupational activities may occur early in recovery with the use of camouflage make-up. Patient education and close follow-up are necessary in the postoperative period.
