Efficacy and Safety of 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG Laser Treatment for Removing Melanocytic Nevi

BACKGROUND: Until recently, the removal of melanocytic nevi has been performed with a CO(2) laser or Er:YAG laser. These lasers have been useful for removing affected spots. However, enlargement of spots or some sequelae, including depressed or hypertrophic scars, could develop as unwanted results. The Q-switched Nd:YAG laser has been used to remove deep-seated melanocytes, such as Ota nevus or tattoos. However, there have been no previous experiments performed to test the efficacy and safety of this laser treatment for melanocytic nevi. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser for removing melanocytic nevi, including congenital nevomelanocytic and acquired nevomelanocytic nevi. METHODS: Two thousand and sixty four Korean patients with small melanocytic nevi were treated with a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser from 2005 to 2009. High-resolution photographs were taken in identical lighting and positions before and after the six weeks of treatment to observe the procedural efficacy. RESULTS: About 70% of the nevi treated using a 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser were completely removed after one session. The other 30% were completely treated within three sessions. The appearance of sequelae such as hollow scars noticeably decreased compared to the results seen in CO(2) or Er:YAG laser treatments. CONCLUSION: Use of the 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is a safe and effective treatment modality for melanocytic nevi.