An Update on Sandpaper in Dermabrasion with a Different and Extended Patient Series

BACKGROUND: Dermabrasion is an accepted method for improving the appearance of facial scars. It allows the epidermis to regenerate as a smooth surface after the defective dermis and epidermis have been removed. Several methods and instruments are currently being employed for dermabrasion. This study is an update on a forgotten or abandoned technique. We extended the patient range and saw that this technique was one procedure used before laser systems became available. It is still effective and the cheapest procedure for treatment of these patients. Dermasanding is effective not only for burn scars but also for depressed, acne, hypertrophic, and trap-door scars, cellulite, and tattoos. METHODS: The authors performed this technique on 38 patients with different diagnoses. RESULTS: Each patient was reviewed separately. The obtained result in each patient was reviewed with regard to patient satisfaction. In no patient was the result worse compared to the original scar, burn, or injury. Mild wound infections were seen in only four cases but they were not severe. They were controlled with systemic antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSION: Dermasanding with sandpaper is effective not only for burn scars, but also for other types of scars (acne, depressed, trap-door, hypertrophic), tattoos, cellulite, and antiaging.