Pulsed-dye laser for treating ecchymoses after facial cosmetic procedures.

[OBJECTIVE] To assess the safety and efficacy of a 595-nm pulsed-dye laser in the treatment of ecchymoses after facial cosmetic procedures.

[METHODS] Twenty consecutive patients with ecchymoses after facial cosmetic procedures underwent treatment with the pulsed-dye laser. A 10-mm spot size was used, with pulse duration of 6 milliseconds, fluence of 6 J/cm(2), and cryogen spray for 30 milliseconds with a 20-millisecond delay. The ecchymotic area was outlined; the lateral half was treated on postoperative day 5 or 6 and the medial half on postoperative day 7 to 10. Clinical photographs were obtained before and after each treatment. Three blinded independent observers evaluated the photographs and graded the ecchymoses on a scale of 0 to 3, with 3 indicating severe ecchymosis.

[RESULTS] The most common procedures associated with ecchymoses are cervicofacial rhytidectomy, facial lipocontouring, thread lift, and minimally invasive subperiosteal midface-lift. Pulsed-dye laser treatment resulted in a 63% mean improvement in ecchymosis scores within 48 to 72 hours. The only adverse effects were mild edema and discomfort. Maximal efficacy of the laser treatment was observed when it was performed between 5 and 10 days postoperatively. Patient satisfaction was universally high.

[CONCLUSIONS] Treatment with the pulsed-dye laser is safe and effective for expeditious resolution of postoperative ecchymoses after facial cosmetic procedures. It has the potential for wider application in treating postoperative ecchymoses on other areas of the body and after trauma.