News » The Future of Plastic Surgery ? Stem Cells?
Apparently, an assistant professor of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine is talking up the benefits of stem cells to fill in wrinkles and even create a "natural" (again, loosely) breast implant made from stem cell-derived fat tissue. I've seen a lot of supposedly "groundbreaking" innovations in the cosmetic industry over the last few years, but if/when the "magic" of stem cells can be harnessed as an alternative to implanting foreign objects, I'm sure a lot of doctors will be jumping on that ship headed to that brave new world.
Of course, there are certainly far more important and life-saving applications of stem cell technology, and in fact what the professor at the University of Pittsburgh is talking about has to do with using stem cells to grow a variety of tissue - bone, neurons, and even new organs. I think the key here is in finding a safer and even healthier way for people to address their medical and cosmetic concerns, and for that reason stem cells have a huge potential to shape practically all fields of medicine.
What do you think? Will surgeons who've spent years learning detailed surgical techniques be willing to change their practices? I bet quite a few of our clients - Denver, Seattle, and Birmingham plastic surgeons - will be extremely interested in what this new technology has to offer. And how quickly can we expect stem cell technology to become a reality for cosmetic patients? After all, last time I checked my local Honda dealer still isn't selling flying cars and when I go home, I still don't have a robot maid who's made me dinner and cleaned that spot on the couch where my cats are determined to sit and shed. Innovation doesn't happen overnight, I know, but I'm encouraged by the stem cell concept in the cosmetic context.