Copper Vapor Laser and Microsclerotherapy of Facial Telangiectases: A Patient Questionnaire

BACKGROUND: Facial telangiectasia due to photodamage is a common disfiguring condition in modern society. Over the past 10 years yellow light laser photocoagulation has become the treatment of choice. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of copper vapor laser alone with combined microsclerotherapy and copper vapor laser in the treatment of facial telangiectases. METHODS: Two hundred thirty-nine consecutive patients were asked to complete a questionnaire evaluating the two different treatments; 180 (75%) patients responded. RESULTS: Both treatments were found to be effective but patients who received the combined treatment gave significantly higher ratings in effectiveness and overall satisfaction. There was also non-significant reduction in the incidence of adverse effects reported by patients treated by the combined method. CONCLUSION: Supplementary microsclerotherapy enhances the effectiveness of copper vapor laser photocoagulation of facial telangiectases.