Introduction 2025 Special Dermatology Plastic Surgery Issue

Dear Readers, Welcome to this special issue of Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, where we focus on laser applications in dermatology and plastic surgery. This field represents not only the forefront of technological innovation but also the artistry of restoring and rejuvenating the human form. As lasers continue to evolve, their impact on both dermatological care and esthetic surgery has become increasingly profound, redefining standards and expanding possibilities. In this issue, we explore groundbreaking advancements that are reshaping patient outcomes and transforming clinical practice. From the latest in fractional lasers and radiofrequency microneedling for scars, rejuvenation and drug delivery, to pulsed dye lasers for port wine marks and hemangiomas, nanosecond lasers for pigmented lesion removal and radiofrequency for abdominal circumference reduction, our contributors provide insights backed by rigorous research and hands-on expertise. Additionally, we contrast optical coherence tomography and reflectance confocal microscopy, the effects of cryolipolysis on adipocyte browning, and the treatment window for laser therapy of scars, highlighting the critical integration of science and clinical application. This convergence of dermatology and plastic surgery underscores the importance of collaboration. As practitioners, researchers, and innovators, our shared mission is to ensure that these technologies are not only effective but also safe and accessible. The articles in this issue aim to provide practical guidance, stimulate thought, and inspire innovation in your daily practice. On a personal note, it is truly inspiring to witness how lasers have moved beyond their traditional boundaries over the past quarter century, offering solutions for conditions once thought untreatable. This evolution reflects not only the ingenuity of our field but also our commitment to improving lives. We invite you to immerse yourself in these pages and hope that the knowledge shared here will empower your practice and spark new ideas. As always, we encourage feedback and discussion, as your perspectives enrich this journal and the field it serves. Thank you for your dedication to advancing the science and art of laser medicine. Warm regards, Macrene Alexiades, MD, PhD Guest Editor Lasers in Surgery and Medicine