Many factors influence plastic surgery trends. Economic conditions ebb and flow, and technological breakthroughs introduce new possibilities.

Plastic surgeons also perform reconstructive procedures, like repairing congenital disabilities (like cleft lips and palates) or injuries or treating cancer patients.

In terms of cosmetic procedures, patients are seeking a more natural look. Breast augmentation, for example, is shifting away from increasing cup size to finding a proportion that complements the patient’s overall frame.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is a broad field that encompasses studying life and how it functions. This multidisciplinary field uses advanced techniques to explore and understand biological processes to create new materials, medicines, and other products that improve the lives of humans worldwide.

Biotechnological advancements like regenerative medicine are revolutionizing plastic surgery. Regenerative medicine uses specialized cells to replace damaged tissues and organs. It can help patients suffering from burns, amputations, scarring, nerve damage, or other conditions that cause tissue loss.

This innovative science has many applications in other fields as well. Biotechnology is used to produce new materials in the construction industry, produce beer and wine, create washing detergents, and even clean up environmental pollution.

However, just like any other technology, biotechnology has its downsides. It can also pose ethical dilemmas we have yet to think through thoroughly. For example, DNA sequencing can reveal personal information that could be used to discriminate against individuals, or genetically engineered crops may escape into wild populations and interbreed with native species (potentially creating unintended ecological consequences). This is why it is essential to have proper clinical trials and regulations in place before using biotechnology.

Personalized Treatments

While plastic surgery takes its name from the synthetic material made to mold into various shapes, the medical specialty covers a wide range of procedures that alter the body’s appearance and ability to function. Reconstructive plastic surgeries fix physical congenital disabilities, like cleft lips and palates or ear deformities, and injuries, such as changing the shape of a broken jaw bone. Cosmetic (or aesthetic) procedures can make the breasts larger or smaller, reshape the nose or sculpt the chin, and remove pockets of fat from the body to improve the figure.

Many people get Bellevue plastic surgery to address emotional problems, such as severe self-criticism or a distorted view of their appearance. Still, these treatments won’t be very effective until the underlying issues are addressed with the help of a therapist. For this reason, choosing a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in treating your problem is essential. Also, look for a clinic that is accredited by reputable accrediting bodies.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

While all surgeries leave scars, minimally invasive procedures are far less visible. Plastic surgeons make one or more small incisions and insert slender instruments that have a built-in light and digital camera so you can see the progress on a monitor. The procedure is also far less painful than traditional surgery.

In addition, the smaller incisions reduce the chance of infection. In invasive surgery, significant cuts allow bacteria to enter the body and cause complications. Minimally invasive surgery prevents this by using smaller incisions and limiting the amount of open skin.

For example, the short scar facelift, known as rhytidectomy, removes excess sagging skin and tightens muscles to improve facial shape. Liposuction, meanwhile, is the most popular cosmetic medical procedure in Bellevue and removes stubborn fat from areas such as the arms, back, abdomen, and buttocks.

If you are considering a minimally invasive procedure, it is essential to research your surgeon and practice carefully.

Stem Cell Technology

Stem cells are a unique population of undifferentiated cells that can self-renew and differentiate into different cell types. They are the basis for regenerative medicine, which aims to restore and replace damaged cells and tissues.

Stem cell technology can also be used to enhance cosmetic procedures. It is beneficial for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In addition, it can be used to treat sagging skin in the neck and jowls.

In the past, a facelift would involve cutting into the patient’s skin to remove loose or excess tissue. Now, surgeons can inject the patient with stem cells that stimulate collagen production. This can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and jowls and improve facial volume.

In addition to a traditional facelift, stem cell treatment can treat sagging cheeks, a condition called lichen sclerosis (LS).