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Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2003;5:445-446.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

INTRODUCTION

LASER SKIN resurfacing using pulsed wave carbon dioxide (CO₂) lasers is an important component in the armamentarium of facial plastic surgeons, among others.¹ As previously reported, pulsed CO₂ laser skin resurfacing produces a quantifiable improvement in skin elasticity.² This study was performed when ablative resurfacing was at a peak; however, some of the clues to patient selection may also be applicable to the current market-driven procedures. Many patients undergo resurfacing procedures with high expectations of outcomes. In the demanding or psychologically disturbed patient, these expectations may be distorted or unrealistic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate true patient satisfaction with the results of pulsed CO₂ laser skin resurfacing as well as to identify potential psychological indicators that may serve as warnings of likely dissatisfaction. Surveys developed in conjunction with the Stanford University Department of Psychiatry were used.

METHODS

This study, approved by the institutional review board at Stanford . . . [Full Text of this Article]

RESULTS

COMMENT

R. James Koch, MD
Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Division of Otolaryngology, Edwards R-135
Stanford University Medical Center
Stanford, CA 94305-5328
(e-mail: rjk@stanford.edu)

James P. Newman, MD
San Mateo, Calif

Debra L. Safer, MD
Stanford