20 May “Tissue Glue” and my Facelift
Tissue Glue in Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgeons are always trying to build a better mousetrap. In other words we are constantly trying to improve our techniques and make surgeries better in terms of results, both aesthetically as well as in terms of patient recovery. One of the newer entries into this constant barrage of new products is the use of tissue glue during facelifts.
Tissue glue more commonly known in medicine as fibrin sealants have been used for many years in a wide variety of surgical settings. Both cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons commonly use fibrin as a spray product that helps the body stop bleeding following certain surgical scenarios. More recently plastic surgeons have begun using fibrin sealants following facelift procedures. The thought is that the fibrin will help reduce bleeding following the procedure as well as allow the patient’s skin to adhere in the precise location the surgeon is attempting the skin to be placed. The decrease in bleeding will in turn help to reduce bruising, and allow the patients to get back to their normal schedules sooner following the surgery.
Facelift Surgery Study
A recent article in the March issue of the Aesthetic Journal of Surgery evaluated the safety and efficacy of the fibrin sealants. They specifically looked at tissue adherence and local hemostasis (lack of bleeding) in rhytidectomy (facelift) patients. The authors of the study found that the use of fibrin with facelift surgery tends to be safe and results in accomplishing the two goals of tissue adherence and hemostasis. The study did not address whether this translated into a better cosmetic result but it undoubtedly contributed to faster recoveries.
So if you are in the market for a facelift, make sure to ask your surgeon whether you are a candidate for this type of product. It might make all the difference to a faster recovery so that you can be back sooner enjoying all your normal activities with your beautiful new look. If you have more questions about this article or other plastic surgical questions please feel free to contact Dr. Parson in our office.
About Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon Dr. Parson
Dr. Parson is an experienced plastic surgeon chosen multiple times as one of the “Top Docs” highlighted in Phoenix Magazine and is the former Chairman of Plastic Surgery and Chief of Surgery at Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Hospital. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.