In a study published in early September in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers at Stanford University found that they could make stem cells out of liposuction fat two times faster and with 20 times the efficiency than they could previously.
Stem cells are unique because they have the ability to become any tissue in the body. This means that if a patient is suffering from organ failure, a person’s stem cells could potentially be used to grow a new, healthy organ. Stem cells could also be used to replaced damaged cartilage in patients who suffer from arthritis. The possibilities for stem cells are seemingly endless.
The development of stem cell research could also have a major effect on the plastic surgery industry. According to experts, stems cells could be used to allow women to grown their own natural breasts, fill in facial wrinkles, and to replace tissue lost after mastectomy.
Stem Cells and Breast Augmentation
Because stem cells can be used to grow new fatty tissue, researchers believe that fat extracted from the stomach can be made into stem cells, which are then injected into the patient’s breasts. Over the next several months, the breasts grow to the desired size and strength.
Stem Cells and Facial Rejuvenation
The wrinkle treatment is similar to the breast augmentation process, in that fat is removed from the abdominal area, made into stem cells, then injected into the target areas. After the stem cell solution is injected into facial lines, it is theorized that the new tissue will aid in facial rejuvenation and improve skin texture.
Tags: breast augmentation, health, plastic surgery, skin care
