Stem cell research has been around a long time, but it is not something that the general public knows much about. Stem cells are cells found in the body which are found after embryonic development. Their purpose is to multiply via cell division, and repair damaged tissue or replace dying cells.

Until now people having cosmetic treatment have relied on surgery to reshape and alter particular features. However the latest research may have found a new way to use stem cells as an alternative to surgery.

Dr. Mark Berman, a United States doctor and President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery told reporters: “We’ve learned that your own fat is a great source for stem cells.”

He added: “Not only will this be the next major plateau in cosmetic surgery, this is likely to represent the next major breakthrough in medicine in general.”

Dr. Berman believes that stems cells found in fat can be used for a variety of cosmetic procedures including rejuvenating the face, hands and eyelids. They can also be used for breast and buttock augmentation, to name just a few.

One area in particular that could benefit from the use of stems cells is liposuction. Liposuction, also known as Lipoplasty, is the removal of fat by effectively sucking it out. While it’s applicable for most areas of the body, liposuction is generally used on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and neck.

At the moment the amount of fat that can be removed at any one time is limited, and this is normally agreed between the patient and clinician. While the procedure itself is not dangerous, it is advisable that patients are fit and healthy before it is carried out. Safety relates to the amount of fat being removed and the type of anaesthesia – local or general used.

There are a number of alternatives to liposuction, already on the market. For instance, lipodissolve involves injecting a small medication into the area of the body where the fat is to be removed. The fat dissolves and passes out of the body naturally.

Mesotherapy is another alternative to surgery and is very popular in Europe and South America. It is similar to lipodissolve except the needles used are so fine the procedure is virtually painless.

Using stem cells to remove unwanted fat and replace the damaged area resulting from surgery may in the future be an added benefit for those looking for cosmetic treatment without it being invasive.