Combining surgical methods for skin resurfacing

Cutaneous resurfacing with lasers is still in its infancy. As with all new techniques, its proper place will be determined in the context of established procedures. Dermabrasion and chemical peeling have been used by dermatologists for cutaneous resurfacing for over a century. In many patients, any one of these three procedures can be used to achieve excellent results. For others, a specific procedure is clearly more beneficial. For many patients, combining the use of these three techniques achieves maximum benefit. This article discusses the use of combined techniques and when they are indicated.