Effective use of nonablative fractional laser on multiple whip scars

Abstract

Background: Laser technology provides different solutions for scar treatment from the traditional ablative lasers to the more recent fractional devices. Patients and methods: We present the case of a young woman treated for scars induced by severe whipping since the age of 10. She received four monthly nonablative fractional 1550 nm erbium glass laser treatments. Fluence used was 20 mJ/cm2 with 1500 microthermal zones/cm2. Results: Significant improvement was documented in the color and texture of the lesion at the end of treatment and at follow-up. Treatment had no major side effects and was well tolerated. Conclusions: We believe that nonablative fractional lasers, used mainly for cosmetic purposes, may be useful in managing post-traumatic scars as well.