Dermabrasion. As a complement to aesthetic surgery

Dermabrasion remains an effective and reliable resurfacing option for perioral rhytides, acne scars, traumatic facial scars, and rhinophyma. It is inexpensive, portable, and widely available. It is well taught in most plastic surgical training programs and, therefore, does not require expensive secondary training courses. Dermabrasion requires no specialized accessory equipment and poses no fire hazard in the operating room. Extensive literature and clinical experience document its efficacy. Proper patient selection and recognition of planing depth are both essential to successful outcome. Despite the recent popularity of the carbon dioxide laser, dermabrasion should remain a fundamental working skill for all plastic surgeons.