Efficacy of the carbon dioxide fractional laser in the treatment of compound and dermal facial nevi using with dermatoscopic follow-up.

Background

Surgical excision for nevi can produce scar formation. Treatment of compound and dermal nevi, especially on the face, can be challenging.

Objectives

The study objectives included an assessment of the efficacy and safety of the CO2 fractional laser for removing compound and dermal nevi and usefulness of dermoscopy for the monitoring of the nevus.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 330 patients with 684 facial nevi. CO2 fractional laser was performed at 2-month intervals until complete clearance occurred. The global assessment scale (GAS) scores were used to assess the overall results.

Results

Five-hundred fifty-four nevi (81%) were successfully treated in one session. Eighty-nine (13%) and 34 (5%) required second and third sessions, respectively. Only seven (1%) required >3sessions. At the end of one year, patients' (87%) and physicians' (85%) GAS scores were rated as excellent and good, respectively. At the one year follow-up, fibrosis in 20 patients (3%), recurrences in 15 (2%), dimples in 12 (2%), scars in 12 (2%), hyperpigmentation in 8 (1.5%), and hypopigmentation in 6 (1%) were observed as side effects.

Conclusions

CO2 laser produced excellent cosmetic results, led to high patient satisfaction, and could be easily performed. Dermoscopy can be helpful for long-term follow-up.