This year’s Symposium featured over 100 expert clinical lecturers who shared cutting-edge insights and real-world experiences in medical laser treatments. The program focused on LA&HA’s three core research areas: Aesthetics & Dermatology, Dentistry and Gynecology—offering a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, thought-provoking lectures, and engaging round table discussions. A big congratulations to our Best Lecture award winners — Dr. Fernando Duarte (Portugal), Dr. Lucas Chia (Malaysia) and Dr. Tamer Erel (Türkiye). With so many outstanding presentations, the competition this year was tougher than ever — undoubtedly one of the strongest scientific lineups we’ve seen to date!

Beyond the lecture halls, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections during lively evening events, dinners, and social activities.

A special highlight of this year’s gathering was the introduction of Mr. Jeff Duchemin, the new President and CEO of the Fotona Group. We are excited to move forward with him as we continue advancing innovation, strengthening our global partnerships, and reaching new milestones together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in Portorož—we look forward to welcoming you back next year!

For more on LA&HA’s ongoing research and initiatives, please visit the LA&HA website.

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The LA&HA Colombia Training Centre in Bogotá officially opened on May 8^th, followed by the LA&HA Mexico Training Centre in Mexico City on May 13^th. Both events were marked by dynamic afternoon symposiums featuring scientific presentations, live demonstrations, and the introduction of new educational programs supported by Fotona and LA&HA headquarters.

Located within the modern facilities of Zaneo / Odella, both centres are equipped with spacious lecture halls and dedicated treatment rooms, enabling live patient demonstrations and hands-on training. Each location was meticulously branded with Fotona and LA&HA’s signature design, reinforcing a strong visual identity aligned with their educational mission.

The opening events drew large crowds of enthusiastic medical professionals, with standing-room-only attendance at both venues. Presentations included an overview of Fotona’s 60-year legacy, the role of LA&HA in clinical education, and the latest advancements in laser technology, led by Fotona’s Dr. Jan Bogataj. Certified local LA&HA lecturers also showcased their expertise and experiences with Fotona laser systems.

In both Colombia and Mexico, the new centres will offer specialized workshops in aesthetics and gynecology, supported by experienced local doctors and LA&HA faculty. The Fotona team also used the opportunity to provide advanced training and visit key clinics, further strengthening Fotona’s presence and the reputation of Zaneo / Odella in the region.

The successful launch events, widely promoted across social media, reflect the growing recognition of Fotona as a leading brand in laser medicine and the strong collaboration between distributors, local doctors, and the LA&HA global network.

The LA&HA Certified Lecturers at the new training centres include:

LA&HA Colombia TC:

• Julio Cesar Velez, MD
• Sebastian Velez, MD
• Estefanía Pinzón Villamil, MD
• Olga Lucia Pardo, MD
• Maria Fernanda Lucas Cirigliano, MD

LA&HA Mexico TC:

• Jorge Baños, MD
• Tania María Rodarte Romero, MD
• Rosario Pérez, MD
• María Barrera Pérez, MD
• Humberto Garza, MD

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The approval covers the “Adjuvant treatment of mild and moderate stress urinary incontinence”, performed using Fotona’s IncontiLase® protocol and its patented Fotona SMOOTH® technology—a laser-based solution designed to strengthen vaginal tissue and improve bladder support.

This milestone reflects growing global recognition of laser therapy as an effective, non-surgical option for improving women’s quality of life. A win for innovation and women’s health!

To learn more about IncontiLase® and other advanced minimally invasive gynecological treatments, visit the gynecology section of the Fotona website.

The post Breaking News: Fotona Secures NMPA Approval for IncontiLase® in China! appeared first on Fotona.

Breaking the Cycle of Recurrent Vaginal Candidiasis

Gaspar et al. investigated non-ablative Er:YAG laser therapy as a promising treatment for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). In a study of 167 women, four laser sessions over four months led to a significant and lasting reduction in symptoms such as burning, itching, pain during sex (dyspareunia), painful urination (dysuria), and abnormal discharge. The results were striking: Nine months after treatment, Candida albicans prevalence dropped from 80% to 30%, with an even greater decline in asymptomatic carriers (from 63% to just 3%). Even Candida glabrata—known for its resistance to antifungal treatments—showed a significant decrease. The study also found a complete elimination of Trichomonas and Gardnerella infections, despite these not being the primary focus of the research. Beyond pathogen reduction, patients reported dramatic symptom relief. Complete symptom resolution ranged from 38% (abnormal discharge) to 74% (dysuria), with consistent improvements observed throughout the study. Patient satisfaction was equally high: 86% of participants reported relief or great relief, increasing to 94% among those with acute vaginitis. Most importantly, the effects weren’t short-lived. The improvements held steady at both the 3-month and 9-month follow-ups, suggesting laser therapy doesn’t just relieve symptoms—it helps restore long-term vaginal health by rebalancing the microbiome. These findings position laser therapy as an effective alternative or complementary option to traditional antifungal treatments.

Assessing Laser Therapy for Atrophic Vaginitis

Vaginal atrophy affects over 15% of premenopausal women and half of postmenopausal women, often causing discomfort, dryness, and pain during intercourse. However, a novel laser-based treatment may provide relief. Bayraktar et al. explored the effectiveness of non-ablative Er:YAG laser therapy for atrophic vaginitis, using shear wave elastography (SWE) to objectively measure changes in vaginal tissue elasticity. In this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot study of 20 women, three sessions of laser therapy were administered at three-week intervals, leading to statistically significant improvements in vaginal tissue elasticity, vaginal pH, and overall vaginal health compared to the control group. Vaginal pH, a key marker of vaginal health, dropped from 5.7 to 5.1 in laser-treated patients, while remaining unchanged in the sham group. Additionally, 92% of laser-treated women saw improvements in sexual function scores (FSFI), while pain during intercourse decreased significantly. Although limited by a small sample size and short follow-up (three weeks post-treatment), this study supports Er:YAG laser therapy as a viable non-hormonal solution for postmenopausal vaginal atrophy. The findings suggest it not only relieves symptoms but also improves tissue structure and function. Additionally, SWE could be a valuable tool for clinicians to objectively track treatment progress.

Enhancing GSM Treatment: The Powerful Combination of Hyaluronic Acid and Laser Therapy

Fidecicchi and Gambacciani investigated the combined use of vaginal erbium laser (VEL) and hyaluronic acid (HA) for treating genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). In their randomized study, participants underwent three laser sessions, each spaced one month apart. The results revealed that adding HA to laser therapy significantly improved symptoms of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia compared to laser alone. What makes this study particularly compelling is the step-by-step improvement observed: patients who received HA both before and after laser treatment experienced the greatest relief. Importantly, this combination treatment wasn’t just effective—it was also remarkably well-tolerated, with only minor, brief side effects such as warmth or temporary discharge, proving its safety and practicality in real-world use. This suggests that HA doesn’t just complement laser therapy—it actively boosts its effects, likely by increasing tissue hydration, which optimizes laser absorption. This synergistic relationship between HA and VEL could be a game-changer for GSM treatment. The study also emphasizes the value of personalized care, recognizing that each patient might need a tailored approach for the best results while maintaining comfort. By demonstrating a safe, non-hormonal, and clinically effective strategy for managing GSM, this research offers exciting possibilities for improving patient care.

Paving the Way to Better Treatments

The findings of these three studies signal a shift in how we approach gynecological conditions such as recurrent infections, vaginal atrophy, and GSM, offering non-hormonal options with lasting benefits. As laser therapies continue to demonstrate their efficacy, they have the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape and become the new standard of gynecological care.

References:

Gaspar, A., Calderon, A., Mora, J. V., Silva, J., Bojanini, J. F., Araujo, M. J., Geada, L. L., Ivanova, E., Helvacioglu, Y., Coello, P. P., Zelaschi, D., Lucas, M. F., Mitraud, L., Carneiro, V., Cogorno, M., Mikić, A. N., & Vasilescu, M. (2025). Exploring the Impact of Non-Ablative Erbium Laser Therapy on Recurrent Vaginal Candidiasis. Lasers in surgery and medicine, 57(2), 187–194. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.23880

Bayraktar, E., Erel, C. T., Akturk, H., Erkan, I. B. O., Hamid, R., Alper, E., Adaletli, I., & Urfalioglu, M. (2024). A novel objective evaluation method, shear wave elastography, in the treatment of atrophic vaginitis by nonablative intravaginal Er:YAG laser, a randomized-sham controlled pilot study. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 31(8), 716–723. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000002380

Fidecicchi, T., & Gambacciani, M. (2025). Hyaluronic acid and erbium laser for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Climacteric : the journal of the International Menopause Society, 28(1), 87–92. https://doi.org/10.1080/13697137.2024.2418492

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The wait is over—registration is now open for the most highly anticipated event of the year for the Fotona Family! After an unforgettable 60th anniversary celebration in Ljubljana, we are thrilled to return to Slovenia’s stunning seaside for the 22nd International Fotona Weekend (IFW) and 15th Laser & Health Academy Symposium (LA&HA).

Act Fast—Limited Spots Available!

Last year’s anniversary event in Ljubljana welcomed over 1,200 participants, but this year’s gathering in Portorož will be more exclusive due to venue capacity. Secure your spot now to ensure you don’t miss out on direct access to world-renowned experts, cutting-edge research, and hands-on insights into the latest advancements in laser medicine. 

Early Bird Registration ends on March 18th, 2025.

A Premier Learning & Networking Experience

Together with the Laser & Health Academy Symposium, co-hosted by Fotona, this year’s IFW meeting will feature practical instructions and cutting-edge presentations from highly experienced clinical experts in laser medicine.

Whether you’re looking to expand your expertise, discover the latest techniques, or connect with fellow professionals, this is the place to be!

📅 Save the Date: May 22-25, 2025

The event kicks off with IFW on Thursday and Friday (for Fotona business partners only), followed by the Symposium on Saturday and Sunday—four days of inspiration, education, and collaboration!

🔴 Register Now and Secure Your Spot!

Let’s shape the future of laser medicine—together.

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A recent clinical trial led by Prof. Deprest’s team from Leuven and published in the European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology highlights the efficacy of Er:YAG laser treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). The study found this innovative, non-surgical approach to be just as effective as supervised Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT), offering meaningful relief for women experiencing mild to moderate bladder prolapse symptoms.

At four months, 65% of laser-treated participants reported feeling “better or much better,” with similar outcomes in the PFMT group (61%). Notably, 24 months later, 63% of the laser-treated patients continued to report improvements, and 50% no longer required further treatment. These findings underscore Er:YAG laser therapy as an effective solution for pelvic health relief. Laser treatment was effective after only 3 to 6 sessions, while PFMT required 9 to 18 sessions for a comparable effect.

The Impact of POP on Women’s Health

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects nearly 50% of women who have given birth, profoundly impacting physical comfort, mental health, and sexual well-being. When pelvic floor muscles weaken, they can allow organs to shift out of place, leading to conditions like bladder prolapse, also known as cystoceles.

Bladder prolapse primarily affects women over 50, with risk factors including vaginal childbirth, obesity, and pelvic surgeries such as hysterectomy. As the prevalence of POP continues to rise—particularly in women with multiple pregnancies, advanced age, or obesity—the demand for effective, minimally invasive treatments has grown. Innovative therapies like Er:YAG laser treatment address this need by offering a safe and highly effective primary treatment or complementary option to traditional methods, such as PFMT or surgery.

Fotona’s ProlapLase^® provides an advanced, non-surgical solution for mild to moderate bladder prolapse. By delivering precise, gentle laser pulses to targeted areas, ProlapLase^® generates a mild heating effect that stimulates collagen production and encourages natural tissue tightening. This process strengthens weakened and prolapsed tissues, reduces symptoms, improves pelvic function, and enhances overall well-being.

🔗 To read the full study, visit https://www.ejog.org/article/S0301-2115(24)00588-8/abstract.

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This year’s symposium spotlighted the most recent advancements in laser technology, innovative applications, and pioneering protocols. The event featured expert-led presentations from Fotona® representatives and renowned clinical professionals, offering deep insights into cutting-edge laser procedures.

Widely regarded as a premier global event for medical laser professionals, the Fotona® Super Symposium continues to rise in prominence each year. The forum provides an unmatched opportunity to explore the latest in laser research, share ideas, and expand professional networks.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated—we’re grateful to have such a dedicated Fotona® family! We can’t wait to reconnect with all of you at next year’s event.

The post Fotona® Celebrates 60 Years of Innovation at the 2024 Diamond Jubilee Super Symposium appeared first on Fotona.

A special thanks to all the speakers, session chairs, and participants for their invaluable contributions and active discussions that made this year’s meeting so fruitful and inspiring. The enthusiasm and collaboration seen at this year’s meeting set a strong foundation for future research and innovation in the field.

As an independent scientific organization dedicated to advancing women’s health and quality of life, the VELA Academy continues to lead in medical research, education, and the publication of innovative gynecology practices utilizing laser and magnetic stimulation.

The post The 10th Annual VELA International Focus Meeting: A Global Collaboration in Laser Gynecology appeared first on Fotona.

This year’s meeting focused on the latest advancements in laser technology, cutting-edge applications, and groundbreaking protocols. With dozens of renowned speakers from across the Asia-Pacific region, the program offered a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to laser medicine. Highlights included in-depth presentations by Fotona representatives and world-class clinical experts, providing valuable insights into innovative medical laser procedures.

During the event, Fotona’s star performing systems were on display for demonstrations and discussion:

• StarFormer® Pro, SP Dynamis®, Dynamis® NX, AvalancheLase®, StarWalker® MAQX & PQX , TimeWalker® for aesthetics, dermatology and surgery
• TimeWalker® IntimaLaser® + StarFormer® Pro for gynecology
• LightWalker® AT S for dentistry

In addition to the wealth of knowledge shared at APAC 2024, the meeting provided ample networking opportunities. One of the standout memories of this year’s event was the Fotona Gala Dinner, where attendees enjoyed a lively and festive atmosphere while building meaningful connections.

Following the success of the Fotona APAC Meeting in Shanghai, the Fotona team continued their momentum with a 60^th Anniversary Roadshow across 13 Chinese cities from September 23rd to 25th, 2024. Organized by Fotona China, this special tour brought the APAC experience directly to local Fotona communities, offering attendees the latest innovations, expert insights, and hands-on knowledge. Each city featured exclusive clinic tours, where participants gained valuable tips on leveraging Fotona’s cutting-edge technologies

The annual Fotona APAC Meeting has become a globally respected forum for medical laser professionals, drawing over 600 attendees from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Each year, the event continues to gain prominence, offering a unique platform for discovering the latest laser research, exchanging ideas, and expanding professional networks.

We look forward to seeing all of our Fotona Family APAC friends again next year!

The post A Supercharged Program at Fotona’s 10th Annual APAC Meeting in Shanghai appeared first on Fotona.

Why Attend?

Our courses offer the perfect combination of expert instruction and hands-on training, providing you with the skills necessary to excel in your field. Detailed descriptions of each workshop are available on the LA&HA website.

What You Will Gain

• Master Advanced Techniques: Learn from industry leaders in a highly interactive environment, refining your skills to stay ahead of the curve.
• Broaden Your Treatment Portfolio: Acquire knowledge of the latest laser technologies, enabling you to provide more advanced and effective treatments.
• Network with Peers: Connect with fellow professionals, exchange insights, and discuss best practices in a collaborative setting.
• Earn Continuing Education Credits: Many courses offer credits that help advance your professional certifications.

What Makes Our Courses Unique

• Expert-Led Workshops: Led by world-renowned professionals, providing the knowledge and tools needed to excel.
• Hands-On Training: Practical sessions designed to give you confidence and proficiency in using Fotona’s state-of-the-art lasers.
• Customizable Education: Specialized workshops tailored to your learning goals are available for individuals and groups, with dates arranged upon request to suit your schedule.

Secure Your Spot Today

Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your expertise in a professional yet relaxed atmosphere at the LA&HA Institute. Register now and take the next step forward in your professional journey.

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