Long-term efficacy and safety of fractional 1064-nm picosecond laser for minimization of post-mammoplasty scar in Asians: a prospective randomized controlled study

Abstract

Various types of lasers and energy-based devices have been used to prevent scar formation following primary surgical wound closure. While picosecond lasers have demonstrated potential in treating hypertrophic scars, limited data exists regarding their role in minimizing surgical scar formation. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a fractional 1064-nm picosecond laser in reducing scar formation after mammoplasty in Asian patients. Eighteen patients with bilateral mammoplasty scars were enrolled, and treatment commenced within one month after surgery. For each patient, one side was randomly selected to receive four laser treatment sessions at four-week intervals, while the contralateral side served as an untreated control. Scar width and thickness were measured using a calibrated caliper, and additional evaluations were performed using the Antera^® 3D imaging system and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). Seventeen patients completed the study. Significant reductions in scar width and thickness were observed on the treated side, with average reductions of 75.3% and 84.9%, respectively, six months post-treatment. In contrast, no significant changes were found in the untreated scars. Imaging and subjective assessments further supported the efficacy of the laser treatment. The procedure was well-tolerated, with only mild and transient postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) reported in 11% of patients. These findings support the fractional 1064-nm picosecond laser as a safe and effective prophylactic option for minimizing postsurgical scarring in Asian patients.