In the field of medical treatment, stem cells are now a buzzword. These special human cells have become the subject of many research studies worldwide, mainly because of their potential to repair and regenerate tissue, treating some of the most deadly, incurable diseases and health conditions. In the world of plastic and reconstructive surgery, stem cells are also heavily relied upon for the repair, regeneration, and healing of body parts or areas that have been altered for cosmetic reasons. In various plastic surgery clinics in New York City, stem cell therapy is integrated with plastic surgeons’ surgical modifications and procedures. In this blog, we will explore the use of stem cells in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Read on.
What are Stem Cells?
Before understanding the functions of stem cells in plastic surgery, we first need to understand what stem cells are. Stem cells are the earliest form of mother cells, possessing the unique ability to differentiate into several kinds of body cells. These cells can self-renew and even regenerate, thereby recreating many of the vital functional tissues in the human body. This explains why they are often referred to as the body’s main repair system. Unlike blood, muscle, or nerve cells, stem cells replicate several times. In plastic or reconstructive surgery, stem cell therapy is applied to produce near-normal results – i.e., results similar to how the body was before the plastic surgery procedure.
Understanding the Functions of Stem Cells in Plastic Surgery
The application of stem cells in the realm of plastic surgery in NYC mainly occurs due to the following functions of these unique cells:
Wound Healing
Wound healing is crucial in plastic surgery as it rapidly regenerates lost or damaged tissues and restores the skin’s protective barrier. Plastic surgeons often use stem cells, such as fibroblasts, bone marrow stem cells, and adipose stem cells, to accelerate healing at the surgical site. These stem cells aid in collagen rebuilding, vascularization, and granulation tissue formation.
Burn & Scar Healing
Chances of post-operative scarring are quite high in the field of plastic surgery. If you have approached a plastic surgeon in New York City for treating burns with plastic surgery, your doctor will likely want to apply the power of stem cells to promote burn healing and scar removal. Adipose-derived stem cells are a powerful tool in this respect, as these stem cells have immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties that are instrumental in preventing scarring.
Tissue Engineering
Tissue engineering plays a pivotal role in plastic surgery. Efficient tissue engineering through the use of a combination of stem cells, such as hematopoietic stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells, can aid in quick tissue repair and regeneration. Plastic surgeons in New York City often use stem cell-based tissue engineering techniques such as 3D bioprinting and scaffolding for optimal surgical outcomes.
Fat Grafting
Fat grafting as a plastic surgery procedure is quite popular in NYC. The aging population visits plastic surgery clinics in New York City to undergo this procedure. Stem cell-assisted fat transfer and grafting are recommended by most doctors to improve the chances of graft survival. Both adipose stem cells and bone marrow stem cells are used during fat grafting.
The Takeaway
Plastic surgeries involve manipulating body tissues, blood vessels, etc., for the purpose of reshaping and re-sculpting. Altering body parts often results in tissue breakdown and damage. However, with the application of stem cells, any defect or damage can be corrected efficiently and quickly. So, whether it’s a facelift, breast augmentation, body contouring, or any other surgery you’re opting for, stem cells can help achieve the surgical goal most effectively, giving you a flawless appearance. For more details, contact Dr. Nilay Shah of Shah Plastic Surgery Clinic in NYC.
