Evaluation of the KTP 532 laser in aesthetic facial surgery.

This study investigated the ability of the KTP 532 laser to reduce postoperative swelling and bruising in aesthetic facial surgery. Thirty consecutive patients receiving a laser-assist procedure (following skin incision with a scalpel, dissection and hemostasis were accomplished primarily with the laser) were compared to 16 patients who had similar technical operations but relied on scissor/scalpel dissection and electrocautery for hemostasis. Evaluations were performed by comparison of serial photographs after surgery and by patient self-assessment. The clinical observations demonstrated a noticeable reduction in postoperative swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the patients whose procedure was performed with the aid of the laser.