Use of the KTP Laser in Cosmetic Surgery

Abstract

The KTP is a versatile laser system when used for cosmetic surgery. When combined with a hexascanner or small spot size handpiece, it is equivalent to a continuous-wave yellow dye laser or copper vapor laser in the treatment of vascular lesions. The KTP laser wavelength (532 nm) is near the peak of a hemoglobin absorption curve as is the wavelength of the continuous-wave yellow dye or copper vapor laser. The KTP laser is also excellent for use in the treatment of Lentigines. The solar lentigines of the hand, arm, and leg are particularly treatable. The hexascanner delivery system makes the KTP laser particularly time-efficient when used to treat the multiple lesions that usually occur with this condition. The KTP laser can also be combined with special quartz contact probes and used for incisional cosmetic surgery such as blepharoplasty, rhytidectomy, forehead lifting, and new “endolaser” small-incision cosmetic surgery. The contact probes focus and defocus the laser quickly allowing the precision use of the laser deep under a flap with a spot size of 0.1 mm. The coagulative abilities of the laser allow an almost bloodless dissection. The Laserlift™ produces less swelling and bruising for the patient and allows the surgeon to complete complicated surgery with excellent visualization in a bloodless field.