Ablative Laser Resurfacing
Pronunciation: ab-LAY-tiv LAY-zer REE-sur-fay-sing
A cosmetic procedure in which a laser removes the outer layers of skin to treat wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation irregularities by stimulating collagen remodelling.
Full Definition
Ablative laser resurfacing uses high-energy laser beams—most commonly the CO₂ (carbon dioxide) or Er:YAG (erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet) laser—to vaporise the epidermis and superficial dermis in a controlled manner. The wound-healing response that follows stimulates new collagen formation and skin tightening. It is distinguished from non-ablative and fractional techniques by the degree of tissue removal and the associated downtime, which can range from one to three weeks. Editors should note that 'ablative' must not be confused with 'non-ablative'; the distinction is clinically significant. CO₂ and Er:YAG are typically formatted with subscript numerals and colons, respectively, in technical copy.
Usage
Usage note: Always distinguish from 'fractional' and 'non-ablative' in copy. Downtime and risk profiles differ significantly, and conflation can be misleading to patients.
In Context
- "Ablative laser resurfacing with the CO₂ platform achieved significant improvement in perioral rhytides after a single session." — Peer-reviewed clinical article
- "The patient leaflet mischaracterised ablative laser resurfacing as a non-invasive treatment, requiring editorial revision." — Patient information leaflet review