We previously published a comparative split-face study which has shown a significant, albeit moderate, effect of ablative fractional laser treatment. While indicating that a single session with fractional ablative lasers can be effective in the treatment of peri-orbital wrinkles, the trial also revealed substantial disagreement between the different end points (profilometry, Fitzpatrick wrinkle score, patient satisfaction). Since the PBI is a patient-related index it could not be included in the aforementioned split-face trial; the present study therefore attempts to further elucidate the patient-related benefit of a single fractional ablative laser treatment session as well as carefully analyse the respective correlations between the outcome parameters employed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• mild to moderate peri-orbital rhytides ('crow's feet') at rest (Class II according to Fitzpatrick)

Exclusion Criteria:

• unrealistic expectations
• inability to meet follow-up criteria
• Fitzpatrick skin phototype >III
• coagulation disorders or anti-coagulant treatment
• allergy to lidocaine or tetracaine
• oral isotretinoin within the last 6 months
• any active skin disease within the treatment areas (e.g., psoriasis, cancer, or autoimmune disease)
• synthetic implants in the treatment area
• facial cosmetic procedures affecting the treatment area within the last 6 months
• photosensitizing medications (e.g., tetracycline, gold)
• history of keloid formation
• pregnancy