Stem Cell Facelift

Over the past few years, the discovery that stem cells can be obtained from human fat has generated excitement in plastic surgery. Our plastic surgery practice already uses fat transfer for breast reconstruction, especially in patients with irradiated tissue, and researchers are studying how stem cell-rich grafts might enhance facial rejuvenation.

It's important to understand that most so-called stem cell facelifts are simply variations on the fat transfer techniques we have used for years. Dr. Core routinely employs fat grafting and small grafts of SMAS tissue to soften nasolabial folds and add fullness to the midface during facelift surgery. Additional injectable fillers or fat transfers can be layered later to maintain volume.

Technique improvements have made fat transfer more predictable, but true stem cell therapies are still under investigation. If you are interested in using your own fat for facial rejuvenation or reconstruction elsewhere, please contact Core Plastic Surgery at (205) 397-2100.