Facial endolaser treatment using a optical fiber connected to a 1444 nm Nd:YAG laser: Preliminary outcomes.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Facial skin ptosis is a very common condition that affects people of both sexes and across a wide age range. This study reports some clinical cases involving the treatment of facial skin laxity using a naked optical fiber connected to a laser with a pulsed emission at 1444 nm, normally used to act on adipocytes thanks to its laser lipolysis action.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 8 patients with facial contour loss, subcutaneous fat deposits, facial flaccidity and wrinkles underwent a single session of endolaser treatment performed using a 600-µm-diameter optical fiber connected to an 1444 nm Nd:YAG laser. Digital photographs of each patient's face were taken before treatment and at a 6-month follow-up. All patients were evaluated with monthly follow-up visits for one year in order to monitor the possible adverse effects. Clinical effects of the treatment were evaluated with real time assessment using the Scientific Assessment Scale of Skin Quality (SASSQ). The patient's perception of pain during treatment was assessed using a 5-point scale.

RESULTS

The intensity of pain experienced during treatment was reported to be moderate to severe, as indicated by a 5-point pain scale value of 2 and 3, respectively. The results of the SASSQ questionnaire revealed significant variations (P < 0.05) for most of the parameters considered. The photographic analysis confirmed improvement in most cases, as assessed qualitatively by the two treating physicians.

CONCLUSIONS

Facial laser treatment for endolifting offers a great opportunity to improve skin laxity in facial areas affected by skin ptosis. It is a minimally invasive, effective and safe procedure, with minimal recovery time and appreciated by patients.