Fractional Photothermolysis: A New Concept for Cutaneous Remodeling Using Microscopic Patterns of Thermal Injury

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We introduce and clinically examine a new concept of skin treatment called fractional photothermolysis (FP), achieved by applying an array of microscopic treatment zones (MTZ) of thermal injury to the skin. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two prototype devices emitting at 1.5 microm wavelength provided a pattern of micro-exposures with variable MTZ density. Effects of different MTZ densities were tested on the forearms of 15 subjects. Clinical effects and histology were assessed up to 3 months after exposure. Treatment of photoaged skin on the periorbital area in an additional 30 subjects receiving four treatments over a period of 2-3 weeks was also tested. Tissue shrinkage and…