ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Many patients seek treatment for scars and striae, which they consider to be cosmetically disfiguring. Over the past decade, refinements in laser technology and techniques have enabled dermatologic surgeons to define the most appropriate laser systems to be used for many types of scars and striae, without the adverse sequelae and recurrence rates noted with older surgical revision and continuous wave laser techniques. In order to optimize the clinical outcome of laser treatment, patient selection, scar and striae evaluation, laser parameters, specific treatment protocols, and management of possible adverse effects should be considered.
