Microwaves versus combined microwaves and fractional carbon dioxide laser in the treatment of postpartum abdominal laxity among Filipino patients in a tertiary hospital: a randomized, prospective, assessor-blinded, simultaneous split-abdomen trial

This study compared microwaves alone versus combined microwaves and fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser in treating postpartum abdominal laxity in 32 Filipino patients. Patients underwent three microwaves sessions on both sides of the abdomen, with one randomized side receiving an additional laser session. Both treatments showed significant improvement in global aesthetic improvement scale scores and patient satisfaction scores (p < 0.001), but combined therapy showed superior results. Mild adverse effects were limited to laser treatment. The combined approach is thus safe and effective, offering a promising solution for postpartum abdominal laxity.