Complications from Dermatological Lasers

With the rise in the use of lasers for dermatologic indications came a concomitant increase in the number of complications, particularly with the lack of regulation as to who can perform these procedures. This chapter centers on side effects and complications that may arise with the use of laser-, light-, and energy-based devices for dermatologic conditions. Side effects and complications include the expected and unexpected, those affecting the operator and the patient, and those due to the device itself. Guidelines on how these complications can be avoided and managed will also be discussed in this chapter.