Perioral rejuvenation with fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂)laser

Introduction: Several therapeutic modalities, such as surgeries, cutaneous filling, and ablative techniques are used for perioral rejuvenation. Objective: The present study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy and side effects of an ablative method, using fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser in the treatment of perioral wrinkles. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out with 20 female patients who underwent a single session of fractional CO₂ laser, with high energy and density, for the treatment of perioral wrinkles. Photographs taken before and 90-days after the procedure were evaluated by two examiners unrelated to the study, who looked at the effect of the laser on the deep static wrinkles, fine lines, skin texture, and color. The patients were also classified, pre-and post-treatment, according to the classification of Baker for perioral wrinkles. Results: Three months after the treatment, it was possible to observe clinical improvement in 100% of the patients, in all the variables evaluated. In the classification of Baker, five patients classified as Grade II, and three who classified as grade III became Grade I and Grade II, respectively. Patients initially classified as Grade I did not have alterations in their classification for presenting few superficial wrinkles. Observed side effects were: transient erythema and edema in the early post-procedure period. Conclusion: Fractional CO₂ laser has proven to be a safe and effective option for the treatment of perioral wrinkles.

Keywords: SKIN AGING; LASER THERAPY; CARBON DIOXIDE.