Dermabrasion and Nasal Reconstruction

Facial plastic surgeons perform various reconstructive procedures in the nasal region following trauma and ablative surgery. Occasionally these procedures lead to postoperative scarring and contour deformities. Although dermabrasion has been used extensively in the nasal area as a treatment for acne scarring, its role as an adjunct for the refinement of primary procedures in this prominent region is often overlooked. Dermabrasion is invaluable as an ancillary tool for the treatment of localized irregularities following nasal reconstruction. In a retrospective study of patients’ records from 1989 to 1992, 55 nasal reconstructive procedures were performed on 44 patients; 19 of these patients underwent postoperative dermabrasion. The most common procedure requiring dermabrasion was local flap reconstruction. Dermabrasion was also used as the primary reconstructive procedure for eight additional patients. A summary and discussion of the primary procedures, anatomical site, indications, timing, technique, postoperative course, and complications of dermabrasion following nasal reconstruction is included. In addition, the special anatomical and technical considerations and general indications for dermabrasion in the nasal region are addressed, as well as other available treatment options.