Closed meloplication percutaneous cable suture technique

The aging midface is caused by a complex process of soft tissue volume loss, gravitational changes, and attenuation of the ligaments involved. This process results in a skeletonized appearance and elongation of the eyelid cheek complex and a medial and inferior descent of the malar fat pads. Standard facelifting techniques have been unsuccessful in addressing these issues. The authors describe the technical aspects of the closed meloplication percutaneous cable suture technique in detail, evaluate 55 cases as a retrospective chart review over a 5-year period, and address the complication rate.

Autologous Fat Transfer: An In-Depth Look at Varying Concepts and Techniques

Fat augmentation is safe, relatively inexpensive, and readily available. Now that cosmetic surgeons are recognizing that facial aging is not simply due to gravity but also to atrophy of tissues, the use of fat for volume restoration is becoming even more popular. Newer techniques of Lipostructure, facial fat rebalancing, and fat autograft muscle injection (FAMI) are targeted to achieve true full-face three-dimensional rejuvenation; however, practical means of objectively measuring outcome are lacking. Basic questions remain regarding the optimal harvesting site, processing technique, and most effective injection technique. Scientific research is emerging th address these issues.

Histologic Comparison of Autologous Fat Processing Methods

PURPOSE

To perform a quantitative analysis of adipocyte viability after fat processing during autologous fat transfer, comparing the processing methods of washing, centrifuging, and sedimentation.

METHODS

An experimental study was conducted in which 24 fat samples were obtained after processing from 22 patients undergoing autologous fat transfer. Histologic analysis of periodic acid-Schiff-stained specimens was then performed.

RESULTS

Cell counts per high-powered field of intact adipocytes and nucleated adipocytes and adipocyte cross-sectional area were significantly greater in samples processed by sedimentation, compared with those by centrifuging or washing.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the various processing techniques currently used during autologous fat transfer, sedimentation appears to yield a higher proportion of viable adipocytes than does washing or centrifuging.