FACIAL REJUVENATION WITH FAT INJECTIONS - WHICH ARE THE MOST EFFECTIVE?

 FACIAL FAT GRAFTING - ARE STEM CELL ENRICHED FAT INJECTIONS MORE EFFECTIVE THAN PURE FAT INJECTIONS? 

As we age, our skin loses elasticity, volume, and hydration, leading to wrinkles, skin laxity, and hollowing across the face. Over time, these changes can make us look older than we feel. There are several treatments available to address these age-related developments, including injectable fillers such as fat injections and fat injections enriched with stem cells.

Fat injections, also known as autologous fat grafting or fat transfer, involve the removal of fat from one area of the body which has excess available, such as the abdomen or thighs, and injecting it into the face to restore volume and reduce wrinkles and laxity. The procedure is relatively simple and involves minimal downtime. It is a very effective procedure but it is important to note that a small percentage of the fat will not survive meaning that multiple treatments may be required to achieve the desired result.

Fat injections enriched with stem cells, on the other hand, involve the same procedure as fat injections but with an additional step. The fat is first processed to extract stem cells, which are then combined with the fat before being injected into the face. Stem cells have the potential to differentiate into various types of cells, including skin cells, and help promote tissue regeneration and healing. 

before (left) and after (right) facial fat grafting

What are stem cells and how do they work? 

Stem cells are unique cells in the body that have the ability to differentiate into a variety of different cell types, and they also have the ability to self-renew. This makes them an important tool for tissue regeneration as they can potentially be used to replace damaged or diseased cells in our bodily tissue.

When stem cells are transplanted into a damaged tissue, they can differentiate into the specific cell types needed to repair that tissue.

Stem cells can also promote tissue regeneration through the secretion of growth factors and other signalling molecules that can help stimulate the growth and differentiation of surrounding cells. These signals can help to recruit other stem cells and progenitor cells to the site of tissue damage, and can also help to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to supply nutrients and oxygen to the healing tissue.

This has led some to suggest that enriched fat injections with stem cells may have a greater effect on repairing age-related changes on the face than pure fat injections.

So, what does the evidence say about the effectiveness of these treatments?

A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal compared the effectiveness of pure fat injections and enriched fat injections with stem cells in treating facial volume loss in 20 patients. The results showed that both treatments led to significant improvements in volume and contour, but there was no significant difference between the two treatments. Another study published in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery compared the two treatments in 32 patients and found similar results. Both treatments led to significant improvements in volume and contour, but there was no significant difference between the two treatments.

However, other studies have suggested that enriched fat injections with stem cells may have some advantages over pure fat injections. For example, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology compared the effectiveness of pure fat injections and enriched fat injections with stem cells in treating facial wrinkles in 30 patients. The results showed that enriched fat injections with stem cells led to greater improvements in wrinkle severity and skin quality than pure fat injections. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology compared the two treatments in 21 patients and found that enriched fat injections with stem cells led to greater improvements in skin texture, thickness, and elasticity than pure fat injections.

The Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery in 2013 study found that enriched fat injections resulted in better long-term outcomes compared to traditional fat injections. The researchers followed 10 patients who received enriched fat injections and found that they had more stable and longer-lasting results compared to patients who received traditional fat injections.

The Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy in 2017 published a study that compared enriched fat injections to traditional fat injections in 20 patients. The researchers found that enriched fat injections resulted in better improvement in skin texture and quality compared to traditional fat injections. 

A 2021 study published in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery journal compared the outcomes of enriched fat injections with stem cells to traditional fat injections for facial rejuvenation. The study found that the enriched fat injections produced superior results, with better retention of volume and a more natural appearance.

Another 2021 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology compared the use of enriched fat injections with stem cells to hyaluronic acid fillers for facial rejuvenation. The study found that the enriched fat injections produced longer-lasting results with fewer side effects.

The National Library of Medicine published study results that looked at 80 patients with facial contour deformities associated with pigmentary changes. The patients who received enriched fat injections were significantly more satisfied as compared with patients treated with conventional fat grafts.

It is important to note that the results may vary depending on the individual patient and the specific technique used in the procedure.

While these studies suggest that enriched fat injections with stem cells may have some advantages over pure fat injections, more research is needed to fully confirm this, as well as understand the benefits and potential risks of this procedure. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your individual needs and goals; contact Ocean Clinic’s highly experienced team to find out more about your facial fat grafting options. 

HOW DO YOU STOP YOUR FACE FROM AGING?

IS THERE ANYTHING WE CAN DO TO PREVENT OR SLOW DOWN THE PROCESS OF FACIAL AGING?

As we age, our skin goes through a natural process of changes that affects its overall appearance and structure. These changes occur due to a combination of factors such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors.

One of the primary causes of facial aging is the loss of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give the skin its firmness and elasticity. As we age, the production of these proteins slows down, causing the skin to become thinner and less elastic. This results in the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, and laxity or ‘sagging’ skin.

Another factor that contributes to facial aging is a decrease in the production of natural oils, leading to dryness and roughness. The reduction in the amount of subcutaneous fat can also lead to a sunken and hollow appearance.

Furthermore, the cumulative effects of exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays and other environmental pollutants can damage the skin's cells and, as a result, accelerate the aging process. This can develop age spots to appear, an uneven skin tone, and a dull complexion.

Additionally, lifestyle habits such as smoking and poor diet - lack of nutrition - can also contribute to premature aging of the skin.

Overall, the aging process in the face is a complex interplay of various biological and environmental factors that can lead to changes in the skin's appearance and structure.

What can we do to prevent facial ageing? 

While some of these changes are inevitable, adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking good care of the skin can help slow down the aging process and promote a more youthful appearance.

While aging is a natural process that we cannot completely prevent, there are certain steps we can take to slow down the visible signs of aging on our face:

1. Protect your skin from the sun: The sun's harmful UV rays are one of the primary causes of premature aging. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, seek shade during peak hours of the day, and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
2. Practice good skincare: Develop a daily skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliating your skin. Use products that contain antioxidants and peptides, which can help reduce the signs of aging.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Dehydrated skin can appear dull and dry, which can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins can help improve your skin's health and reduce the signs of aging.
5. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to premature aging by increasing stress hormones, which can damage collagen and elastin in your skin. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep per night.
6. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to premature aging by causing wrinkles, dryness, and other skin damage. Opt for a healthy lifestyle and protect your skin from the inside. 
7. Exercise: Keeping fit by regular exercise can help to prevent facial aging by improving circulation, reducing stress, increasing collagen production, boosting lymphatic drainage, and improving muscle tone.

Are there any topical creams or supplements that can help prevent ageing?

There are several scientifically proven creams, medications, supplements, and topical lotions that can help prevent aging to some extent. However, it is important to note that aging is a natural and inevitable process, and while these products can slow down or mask the visible signs of aging, nothing will completely stop or reverse it. 

Some common anti-aging ingredients found in skincare products include retinoids, vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. These ingredients have been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, improve skin texture and tone, and increase collagen production.

There are also oral supplements such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants that have been marketed for their anti-aging effects. However, the efficacy of these supplements is still under debate, and more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.

It is always important to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare practitioner before starting any new skincare routine, medication, or supplement, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on individual needs and health status.

What non-surgical skincare can I opt for to help prevent ageing?

At Ocean Clinic we offer a vast range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments to choose from, depending on the individual case we often recommend a combination of procedures for the optimal outcome. Some of the most popular are; 

1. Cosmetic Injections: These are neurotoxins that are injected into the skin to relax the facial muscles, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Regular injections can help prevent the formation of wrinkles by keeping the muscles in a relaxed state.
2. Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers involve injections of hyaluronic acid or other materials that are used to restore volume to areas of the face that have lost elasticity due to aging. By restoring volume, dermal fillers can help prevent the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
3. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that exfoliates and removes the outer layers of dead skin cells. This process can stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
4. Laser Treatments: Laser treatments use light energy to stimulate collagen production, which can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
5. Microneedling: Microneedling involves using a handheld device with tiny needles that puncture the skin. This works by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin and can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines over time.

Contact our team of professional anti-aging dermatologists at Ocean Clinic to create the ideal combination of treatments for your individual skin type and requirements. 

What are the Global Projections for the Future of Cosmetic Surgery?

As Cosmetic Surgery becomes more socially accepted worldwide, which procedures will top

trends? 

Aesthetic surgery has been steadily increasing in popularity in recent years, with a wide range of procedures available to individuals seeking to enhance their appearance. The continued rise in popularity is attributed to many factors which have all made procedures far more socially acceptable in recent years. 

Why is cosmetic surgery becoming more socially accepted globally?

• Increasing accessibility: Cosmetic surgery has become more accessible in many countries, with more clinics and hospitals offering these procedures - as well as privately owned clinics opening by the thousands worldwide. Additionally, advances in technology and techniques have made many procedures and treatments safer and more affordable.

• Changing beauty standards: There is a growing emphasis on physical appearance in many cultures, and certain beauty standards have become more prominent. This has led to an increased demand for cosmetic surgery to enable the desired results.

• Celebrity influence: Many celebrities have openly discussed their experiences with cosmetic surgery, which has helped to reduce the stigma associated with these procedures. This has also made cosmetic surgery appear more mainstream and accessible to the general public; it has become 'normal'. 

• Social media: Social media platforms have allowed people to share their experiences with cosmetic surgery and connect with others who have undergone similar procedures. This has helped to normalize cosmetic surgery and reduce the stigma associated with it.

• Self-improvement: As people become more focused on self-improvement and self-care, cosmetic surgery has become a more accepted means of achieving these goals. Many people view cosmetic surgery as a way to improve their self-esteem and confidence, which is increasingly valued in many cultures. The pandemic was a huge catalyst in cosmetic surgery popularity as people were made far more self-aware (especially facially) due to zoom and other digital platforms being the only way to meet ‘face-to-face’. 

The future of cosmetic surgery seems to involve procedures which lean towards a more natural appearance, enhancing or improving existing features as opposed to trying to change an individual's look altogether. The following are some of the top aesthetic surgery procedures projected for continued growth worldwide:

• Breast Augmentation: Breast augmentation involves the use of either implants and/or autologous fat transfer to alter the size and shape of the breasts. Breast reconstruction falls under this same bracket, as does implant removal/change, or breast uplift. This procedure has remained one of the most popular aesthetic surgery procedures for many years, with technological and social advances only aiding to ensure its continued growth projected in many parts of the world. The rise in fat transfer breast augmentations is expected to grow in vast numbers over the next few years.

• Liposuction: Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat from various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, and arms. It is popular among both men and women to improve the overall shape and aesthetic of the intended area of the body. Body contouring, or body sculpting are the buzz words in liposuction as the procedure involves an artistic touch to shape the body with the desired contours. This is also a growing trend which seems to become more popular each year as the procedure becomes more technically advanced, safe and quicker to recover from. 

• Eyelid Surgery: Also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. This procedure can help to restore a more youthful appearance to the eyes and is projected to continue growing in popularity worldwide. This has also become a more recognised and sought after surgery since the pandemic and the ‘zoom call’ phenomenon, making people far more aware and self-conscious of their facial appearance (especially up close) and seeking a less tired and aged look around the eyes. 

• Rhinoplasty: Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose. It can be performed for both aesthetic and functional purposes, and continued growth is projected in many countries.

• Facelift: A facelift is a surgical procedure that tightens and lifts the skin on the face and neck. It can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin and is expected to continue growing in popularity as the population ages.

• Tummy Tuck: A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It can help to create a flatter, more toned appearance and is expected to continue growing in popularity worldwide.

Overall, these procedures are expected to remain popular and continue to grow in demand as technology advances and social acceptance of aesthetic surgery increases.

The Future of Cosmetic Surgery and Stem Cell Technology

How the future of cosmetic surgery will use stem cell technology!

Plastic surgery has come a long way since its inception. Today, it is a widely accepted practice that can help people achieve their desired appearance and make them feel better about themselves. Like any other medical field, plastic surgery is constantly evolving and one of the latest advancements is the use of stem cell technology, which is now being touted as one of the future main pillars of cosmetic surgery.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to develop into different type of cells in the body. This makes them ideal for use in plastic surgery, as they can be used to regenerate tissue which can then improve the appearance of the skin. There are several ways in which stem cell technology can be used in plastic surgery, for example:

1. Skin regeneration

One of the most exciting applications of stem cell technology in plastic surgery is skin regeneration. Stem cells can be used to grow new skin cells that can be transplanted to areas of the body that have been damaged by burns or other types of trauma. This can help to restore the appearance of the skin and improve its function.

1. Breast augmentation / reconstruction

Stem cell technology can also be used in breast augmentation or reconstruction surgery. When a woman undergoes a mastectomy, she may lose a significant amount of breast tissue. Stem cells can be used to regenerate this tissue, which can then be used to reconstruct the breast. The same can be done for a breast augmentation, the generated tissue can be used in place of (or in combination with) implants. This can result in a more natural-looking and feeling breast.

1. Facial rejuvenation

Stem cell technology can also be used to rejuvenate the face. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and becomes thinner, which can result in wrinkles and sagging. Stem cells can be used to regenerate the skin and improve its elasticity, which can result in a more youthful appearance.

1. Hair restoration

Stem cell technology can also be used to restore hair. Hair loss is a common problem that affects many people. Stem cells can be used to regenerate hair follicles, which can then be transplanted onto the scalp. This can result in a fuller head of hair and improved self-confidence.

The future of plastic surgery using stem cell technology is bright. As more research is conducted and more techniques are developed, we can expect to see even more applications of this technology in plastic surgery. However, it is important to note that this technology is still in its early stages, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.

In conclusion, stem cell technology definitely holds a place in the future of plastic surgery. It has the potential to revolutionize the field and help people achieve their desired appearance in a safe and effective manner. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative and exciting applications in the field of plastic surgery.

Ocean Clinic proudly offers the latest techniques and innovations in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery, please contact us directly for more information on our current procedures and treatments.