Stem cells are the rage in medicine.  From cancer therapies to heart issues, stem cells have the ability to provide amazing potential therapies. The latest branch of medicine to embrace their use is plastic surgery, particularly facial plastic surgery. Currently, in facelifting a new application of stem cells has emerged. Fat, taken from each patient's own body, can be re injected into the patient's face, allowing for the fat cells to act as stem cells, releasing cytokines and other youth producing substances.  The technique for this is based on harvesting fat, typically from the thigh or abdomen.  Once the fat has been harvested the fat is centrifuged or spun down so that only the fat cells remain.  These fat cells are than injected into the face in various layers with small aliqouts of fat to provide both volume and induce a stem cell response.  Most patients will see a youthful glow which they can not put their finger on.

Many patients utilize this treatment in conjunction with other treatments, such as a facelift.  In addition to the new use of stem cells in facial surgery, facelifts have also seen some remarkable advances. One version of this newer facelift, which combines science with the latest anatomical findings, is the facelift technique preformed by Dr. Anil Shah in downtown Chicago, IL Dr. Shah uses an understanding of facial anatomy to lift the appropriate layer of the face. His groundbreaking research discovered a muscle which extends from the neck to the face.  He is one of a handful of surgeons in the world who lift this muscle to create a youthful look.

Patients who combine different aspects of treatment can achieve remarkable, natural results results. Patients seeking these treatments should consult with a facial plastic surgery expert, like Dr. Shah, to find out what treatments and procedures are best suited for their needs.