The face is the most pampered part of the human anatomy. It has been peeled and pulled and creamed and lifted, all in the name of preserving or recapturing its youthful appearance. Anecdotal research on stem cell face lift has interested doctors and patients alike because it is a non-surgical procedure that produces very visible improvements in facial contour and texture in a short time.
Stem cell face lift involves injecting the face with adipose-derived cells extracted from the patient’s own fat deposits. It does not require any cutting, lifting or pulling, making it a viable option for knife-shy and pain-averse patients. This revolutionary facial rejuvenation technique taps into extensive stem cell research that has been done over the years. Stem cells can potentially become different cell types. They have the capacity to keep on dividing as long as the person is alive. In the process, they replenish depleted cells lost to the aging process and other factors.
Contrary to popular misconception, only adult stem cells are used in this cosmetic procedure. Non-embryonic stem cells are harvested from either the patient’s lower abdominal section or the thighs using a process similar to liposuction. This part of the procedure is done in the same session as the facelift itself. Subcutaneous fat in the abdomen and medial thighs have been shown to contain high concentrations of adult stem cells. Using a blotting technique, great care is taken to prepare extracted cells for transplantation to the face. This technique calls for removal of the blood and oil component and mixing the extraction with growth stimulants to ensure the viability of transplanted fat and stem cells. The mixture is then introduced in three layers. The initial layer is at the bone level, the second layer is in the muscle and the final layer is transplanted just below the epidermis. This last layer is a slightly different mix of cells and growth factors to regenerate dermal elements that determine facial contours and skin texture.
This face lift alternative is essentially a more advanced form of fat grafting. Doctors have done fat grafting for over 50 years to repair damaged tissues. The difference here is that fat grafting relocates fat in one plane while stem cell facelift involves multi-layer transplantation. By introducing the cell mix in different layers, more complete rejuvenation is achieved because cells can potentially develop into the specific tissues surrounding it in the level in which it is integrated in the facelift procedure. Lumpy irregularities associated with single-level fat grafting are avoided as multi-plane transplants lead to more even layers of tissue and surface skin.
Finally, the procedure is completed with chemical resurfacing of the skin. This step is included to remedy existing blemishes such as fine lines and dark spots. Depending on the chemical process used, the patient’s skin may also benefit from additional stem cell stimulation. This procedure can be performed on sagging skin on the neck and jowls.
Clearly, stem cell face lift is a comprehensive facial renewal option that not only adds volume where it is needed but also improves skin quality for a more youthful and vibrant appearance. The procedure should be performed only by a qualified professional in a medical setting.