The photocoagulation-assisted aesthetic treatment of phlebectasias of the lips by using a Nd:YAG laser with a low energy level

Abstract

Abstract Background: Venous lakes (VL) are benign malformations often localized in the lips, thereby impacting on the self-confidence of the patients. In the present study, the use of an Nd:YAG laser, according to a defined protocol with an absolute low energy level, is proposed for the treatment of VL of the lips. Methods: 50 patients with VL of the lips were treated with the Nd:YAG in one laser session, without local anaesthesia. The area reduction, according to the Vlachakis criteria, was evaluated 7 and 30 days after the laser application. Additionally, the oral discomfort, rated according to the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) during and 24 hours after the procedure, was recorded. Results: All the patients with VL achieved a complete clinical healing within 30 days after the laser application. In particular, those patients with VL with a diameter ≤ 6 mm (62.1%) achieved a complete resolution after 7 days (p-value: <0.001). Such patients reported no or little discomfort (NRS 0 to 3) during the laser session and no discomfort after 24 hours (p-value < 0.001). No major complications were reported and no recurrence was observed at a 2-year follow up. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Nd:YAG laser treatment could be an effective and well-tolerated approach in the aesthetic treatment of VL of the lips.