The efficacy of a fractionated 1064-nm picosecond Nd: YAG laser compared with a pulsed dye laser for postoperative scar prevention: a prospective split-scar study

Abstract

Pulsed dye lasers (PDLs) are commonly used for early postoperative scar modulation, but evidence for fractionated picosecond lasers is limited. This prospective split-scar study compared the efficacy and safety of a fractionated 1064-nm picosecond Nd: YAG laser with PDL in the early treatment of linear postoperative scars. Fourteen adults received the picosecond Nd: YAG laser on one half of each scar and PDL on the other. Treatments were initiated immediately after suture removal on postoperative day 14 (week 0) in all participants and repeated at weeks 4 and 8. Outcomes were assessed at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 16 using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale–Observer (POSAS-O), and Manchester Scar Scale (MSS). Patient satisfaction was recorded at week 16. Both treatments significantly improved scar appearance by week 16. The fractionated picosecond Nd: YAG laser showed significant reductions in VSS, POSAS-O, and MSS scores, while PDL produced similar improvements. No significant differences were found between treatments over time, and statistical testing confirmed equivalence at week 16 across all scales. Patient satisfaction scores were comparable, and no serious adverse events occurred. Overall, the fractionated 1064-nm picosecond Nd: YAG laser produced short-term postoperative scar outcomes statistically equivalent to those observed with PDL, with good tolerability.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Lasers in Medical Science, 2026 · DOI ↗