Department

Highlighting Skin of Color

Cutaneous Laser Surgery in Darker Skin Phototypes

Tanzi EL, Alster TS

Cutis. 2004;73:21-24, 27-30.

Effective laser surgery in patients with darker skin phototypes can be achieved despite a greater inherent risk of side effects. Although the incidence of undesirable postoperative sequelae has decreased with the development of advanced laser technology and individualized treatment parameters, the risks may never be eliminated completely. Therefore, thorough patient preoperative preparation and education regarding the risks of cutaneous laser surgery will remain an essential aspect of treatment in patients with darker skin tones. As more refined laser techniques evolve, the ability to safely and effectively treat these patients will continue to improve.

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