Stem Cell Lift®
What you need to know about this unique and innovative procedure.
The field of medicine is entering a new era with the use of stem cell technology. As with any new technology there is much confusion about stem cells. The ethical and noncontroversial use of stem cells from your own body fat, known as autologus adult adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells, has come of age, while use of the ethically controversial embryonic stem cells is still being studied and developed. Below are the most commonly asked questions by my patients about this unique and innovative method for sculpting your face and body.
What are stem cells from fat?
Non-embryonic adult stem cells are found most concentrated in the fat. Adult stem cells remain dormant (non-dividing) until they are activated by a normal need for more cells, or by disease or tissue injury. Serving as part of the repair and maintenance system, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish others. When activated, the stem cells in the fat have the potential to either remain a stem cell or become a fat cell, a muscle cell, a bone cell, a cartilage cell, or a nerve covering cell.
Does it leave scars?
No. There are no scalpels used in the procedure. Specially designed blunt instruments are used to inject the fat and stem cells to sculpt the body areas as desired.
Does it make my face look fat?
No. The procedure restores the youthful look by restoring the 3-dimensional balance to the face.
Do I need to be put to asleep?
No. The procedure is minimally invasive and does not require general anesthesia. For very anxious patients, an oral sedative may be given.
Is it safe?
Yes.
Since it is your own fat there is no allergic or adverse reaction that can happen from the fat stem cells. Also, since there is no need for general anesthesia, serious risks associated with general anesthesia are eliminated.
Is it painful?
Most of my patients report feeling mild pressure during the injection that is controlled with local anesthesia and some soreness in the areas treated for about 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure which does not require pain medication.
How long is the recovery?
You will be able to resume your normal daily life immediately, limited by the degree of swelling that you experience after the procedure. Most patients have noticeable swelling in the areas treated from 3 to 10 days depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing response.
How long will the results last?
The results should last for about 5 to 10 years. The results are affected by your lifestyle, habits and genetics. Smoking and weight fluctuations diminish the results.
How will it look over time?
Since it is your own live tissue, it will be undetectable and will change along with the rest of the surrounding tissues it is found in. In addition to having restored the 3-dimentional balanced proportions to your face, the stem cells help rejuvenate the look and texture of the overlying skin, restoring your youthful glow.
How is it different from fat injections?
Fat grafting injection results are dependent on the technique used. The technique used is a major factor in how much viable fat cells are transferred to the desired area. In the stem cell face sculpting procedure, I use a unique patent-pending process, which allows me to double or triple the number of stem cells that are going to be used to reposition the fat and to sculpt the face back to its naturally healthy and youthful appearance. This unique process generates better results, lasts longer and rejuvenates the facial structures as well as the skin over it.