This is a prospective, randomized pilot study of patients who will undergo either early or late incisional laser therapy after breast reduction surgery to alleviate scar burden at NYU Langone Medical Center. The purpose of this study is to see how well carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapy works at preventing scar formation after surgery.CO2 laser therapy is currently being used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons to help with scarring after acne and to rejuvenate the face; its benefits are now being explored by medical professionals in dermatology and cosmetic surgery to prevent scarring after surgery.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
The CO2 fractional laser system will be applied at a pulse energy setting of 50 millijoules and a density of 100 spots/cm2 on one of the breast incisions (either one week after surgery or six weeks after surgery, depending on the randomization group).
New York University School of Medicine
New York, New York, United States
Change in Vancouver Scar Scale Score
Total of score of each measure below: * Pigmentation (0-2) Normal 0 Hypopigmentation 1 Hyperpigmentation 2 * Vascularity (0-3) Normal 0 Pink 1 Red 2 Purple 3 * Pliability (0-5) Normal 0 Supple 1 Yielding 2 Firm 3 Banding 4 Contracture 5 * Height (0-3) Normal (flat) 0 0-2 mm 1 2-5 mm 2 \>5 mm 3
Time frame: 1 Week to Post Laser 1-Year
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.