FRACTIONAL CO₂ LASER AS A TOOL FOR AESTHETIC OPTIMIZATION OF NASAL CONTOURS IN PATIENTS WITH THICK SKIN
RILMED Vol. 6 N° 1
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Keywords

Fractional CO₂ laser;
Thick nasal skin;
Skin ultrasonography;
Dermal remodeling;
Nasal aesthetics;
Rhinoplasty

How to Cite

Rodríguez, M., & Quintero , M. (2026). FRACTIONAL CO₂ LASER AS A TOOL FOR AESTHETIC OPTIMIZATION OF NASAL CONTOURS IN PATIENTS WITH THICK SKIN. Revista Iberoaméricana De Láser Médico, 6(1), 3–12. Retrieved from https://rilmed.ailmed.org/index.php/rilmed/article/view/84

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effect of fractional CO₂ laser treatment on aesthetic nasal contour refinement in patients with thick skin. Methods: A prospective case series was conducted in 11 patients with thick nasal skin treated between October and December 2025. All participants underwent a single session of fractional CO₂ laser treatment (IBLAZE®) using a Low Pain protocol. Epidermal, dermal, hypodermal, and total nasal skin thickness were assessed by ultrasonography before treatment and six weeks later. Aesthetic improvement (GAIS), patient satisfaction, and adverse effects were also evaluated. Results: Significant reductions in dermal and hypodermal thickness were observed, particularly in the nasal tip and supratip regions. The greatest reduction in total skin thickness was 0.43 mm at the nasal tip (p=0.002). Interobserver agreement was substantial (mean Kappa=0.80). Overall, 90.9% of patients reported satisfaction with the treatment. Adverse effects were mild and transient.Conclusions: Fractional CO₂ laser is a safe and effective option for nasal contour refinement in patients with thick skin, promoting dermal remodeling and improved aesthetic definition.

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