DERMABRASION - AS A COMPLEMENT TO AESTHETIC SURGERY

Dermabrasion remains an effective and reliable resurfacing option for perioral rhytids, acne scars, traumatic facial scars, and rhinophyma. It is inexpensive, portable, and widely available. It is well taught i n most plastic surgical training programs and, therefore, does not req uire expensive secondary training courses. Dermabrasion requires no sp ecialized accessory equipment and poses no fire hazard in the operatin g room. Extensive Literature and clinical experience document its effi cacy. Proper patient selection and recognition of planing depth are bo th essential to successful outcome. Despite the recent popularity of t he carbon dioxide laser, dermabrasion should remain a fundamental work ing skill for all plastic surgeons.