The Therapeutic Effects of the Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser on Pigmented Lesions.
- Author:
Ho JANG
1
;
Joo Weon CHO
;
Young Cheun NA
;
Seog Keun YOO
;
Hyeon Joon CHOI
Author Information
1. Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, School of Medicine, Wonkwang University.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Q-switched Nd: YAG laser;
Tattoo;
Pigment
- MeSH:
Absorption;
Cicatrix;
Extremities;
Eyebrows;
Humans;
Ink;
Melanins
- From:Journal of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
2001;28(5):511-516
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
The Q-switched lasers which was introduced under the concept of selective photothermolysis. Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, which targets dark pigments in a longer wave length (1064 nm) that has less absorption by melanin, can effectively treat deep tattoos with less pigmentary alterations. We report our experience over the past 3 years in treating 565 patients with tattoos and cutaneous pigmented lesions using the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Patients were exposed with a pulse duration of 10 ns and fluences of 6, 7 J/cm2(1064 nm) or 12, 14 J/cm2(532 nm), in exposure spots of 2 mm or 3 mm, at intervals of 4 weeks. Q-switched Nd:YAG laser was effective in removing deep pigmented lesion with 1064 nm, and colored inks with 532 nm. Seventy-three percent of amateur black pigmented lesion were > 75% clear after four to ten treatment. Ninty-eight percent of professional black pigmented lesion were > 75% clear after two on eyebrow, six to eight on extremity and trunk. No significant side effects, including pigmentary changes or scarring, were noted.
