Fat a key tool in facial reconstruction

Fat grafting, the process of taking fat from one area of the body and injecting it into another, has emerged as an increasingly important tool in reconstructive plastic surgery, according to a study. Plastic surgeons are set to explore the use of fat grafts for improving results in head and neck reconstructive surgery.

While research is still unlocking all the mysteries of fat grafting, plastic surgeons know the procedure yields many positive results.

In fact, there are case studies where fat grafts were used to enhance function such as reconstructing a patient's lips after adverse reaction to "black-market" silicone injections or the reversal of therapeutic radiation injuries.

The researchers will present the findings and case studies during a panel discussion at the ASPS Plastic Surgery 2009 conference in Seattle, members of the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons.