Dermal grafting.

At the 1999 American Academy of Dermatology symposium on soft-tissue augmentation, Dr. Arnold Klein mentioned 31 different [figure: see text] filler substances now available world-wide. Of these 31, 29 were either synthetic or modified, and only two (dermis and fat) were autologous material reimplanted without significant alteration. Dermal grafts have stood the test of time. Before skin surfacing is performed, one must fill up depressions not improved by the resurfacing technique. The dermatologist or plastic surgeon should seriously consider adding dermal grafting to his or her armamentarium. Patients will likely be grateful!