When most of us think of fat, words like “stubborn,” “bothersome” and “unwanted” are the first to spring to mind. However, thanks to cutting-edge technology, cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Daniel J. Leeman are looking at fat in a whole new light.

Fat is an abundant, natural source of stem cells that contains 300 times the amount found in bone marrow. Because of their miraculous ability to renew and regenerate, the stem cells found in fat are vital to the latest method to combat the effects of aging.

Leeman commonly uses harvested fat as a filler to enhance and restore youthful contours to the face and hands where time and gravity have taken their toll. The procedure can help smooth deep facial wrinkles, restore sunken areas beneath the eyes, fill out hollowed cheeks, even out acne scarring, improve chin contour and add volume to the lips. “Synthetic facial fillers like Restylane®, Radiesse® [and] Juvederm® have historically been able to provide a suitable, albeit temporary, solution to add volume to the face and hands,” Leeman said. “Now, with the help of stem cell enriched fat from patients’ own bodies, we can do more than volumize; we can actually rejuvenate.” When concentrated stem cells are used in fat transfer procedures, the fat survival rate is significantly increased – up to 90 percent viability – and patients enjoy natural-looking, longer-lasting results. Additionally, the skin around the area of transfer often appears transformed, more vibrant and evenly toned. 

“The reason we’re seeing this bonus enhancement of the skin around the area of injection is that each stem cell secretes key growth factors that boost the formation of blood vessels and promote health at the cellular level,” Leeman said. “The result is revitalized skin.”

The key to using the stems cells to their maximum potential lies in an innovative harvesting technique that gently removes unwanted fat from the body in an improved way. Employing water-assisted liposuction, Leeman uses a gentle, pulsating spray of fluid to dislodge fat without the brute force used in traditional liposuction procedures. During the harvesting process, patients enjoy the added benefit of precise contouring of donor areas, including the thighs and abdomen.

Harvested fat can also be used to naturally augment areas of the body like the breasts and buttocks. Fat is injected at varying depths to help smooth irregularities, improve dimpling, mask visible edges around implants and enhance overall contour. Using patients’ own natural fat reduces the risk of infection or other complications that can occur when foreign substances are introduced into the body.

The procedure is so gentle that it can be done without the use of general anesthesia, so downtime is significantly decreased. Some soreness and swelling should be expected immediately after the procedure, and patients will start to see long-term results about one month after surgery.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Leeman, visit www.NEWUplasticsurgery.com.