Collagen remodeling after 585-nm pulsed dye laser irradiation: an ultrasonographic analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Nonablative dermal remodeling is an evolving technology that has generated great interest among both laser surgeons and patients. Evidence indicates that dermal collagen formation is the key mechanism of action for the nonablative techniques. We studied, with ultrasound, new collagen formation after nonablative laser irradiation. METHODS Ten patients with facial rhytids underwent a single treatment with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser. The patients were all female, ranging in age from 47 to 67, and were Fitzpatrick skin types I-III. Laser parameters were as follows: an energy fluence of 2.4 to 3.0 J/cm2, a pulse duration of 350 microsec, and a spot size of 5 mm with no overlap. Ultrasonographic assessments of dermal collagen were taken at baseline and at 30 and 90 days after treatment. RESULTS Ultrasonography demonstrated an increase in dermal collagen after a single treatment with the 585-nm pulsed dye laser. The greatest degree of neocollagenesis occurred periocularly. CONCLUSION A single treatment with a 585-nm pulsed dye laser appears to increase dermal collagen. This increase in dermal collagen can be assessed with noninvasive cutaneous ultrasound.