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The use of dermal implants for improving acne scarring and facial rhytids has increased dramatically in the last ten years. The introduction of, and experience with, collagen dermal implants during that period has played a great role in this increased popularity. Dermal implants are now an adjunct to facial rejuvenation surgical procedures, and to the improvement of depressed cutaneous scars.
In March 1988, a new dermal implant (Fibrel) was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in the elevation of depressed cutaneous scars. Fibrel is a gelatin matrix implant consisting of absorbable gelatin powder and aminocaproic acid, which is reconstituted with the patient's plasma before being injected intradermally beneath the scar. A total of 321 patients were evaluated after a skin sensitivity test; 2% had positive skin reactions. Eight hundred forty scars were treated with Fibrel implant material and followed up for approximately one year. About 6%