Regenerative Nanotechnology: A New Wave of Aesthetic Treatment

Brody Whalen - Department of Plastic Surgery

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1748681515004106?casa_token=0XVt4GJgMPsAAAAA:Rp9_zqtjFQbpxOCT3kq19p5F01EH_AQZrtGjpCngcHPuLuvN2zg5tKVTHOTMQ0VmYsJPmk55I2s

The use of regenerative nanotechnology has been heavily researched as a potential source of aesthetic therapy. Specifically, researchers hope that this new therapy can be used for nerve regeneration, burn and wound care, and artificial skin growth. There are several potential benefits of this new technology: lower procedure costs, decreased postoperative infection, and long-lasting outcomes. While only a few nanomaterials have been approved by the FDA, the ability to combine integrative therapy and diagnostics is a field of great potential.

In this article, researchers emphasize the high surface area-to-volume ratio of nanomaterials, making them highly reactive and useful for reconstructive procedures. Once implemented, nanoparticles target fibroblasts, which is crucial for a seamless connection between natural and regenerative tissues. Additionally, nanomaterials have demonstrated the capacity to reduce biofilm formation, which may significantly reduce postoperative infections. Due to these unique features, nanomaterials are easily targeted by biomolecules and have proven to be useful for drug delivery systems. 

The FDA has approved several nanotechnology-based therapies, one being a bandage called “Acticoat” that targets inflammation in burn victims. Overall, the growing list of benefits demonstrates the importance of exploring regenerative nanotechnology in the world of plastic surgery.

Sources: 

Berry, M., et al., (2015, September 6). Nanotechnology and regenerative therapeutics in plastic surgery: The next frontier. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1748681515004106?casa_token=0XVt4GJgMPsAAAAA%3ARp9_zqtjFQbpxOCT3kq19p5F01EH_AQZrtGjpCngcHPuLuvN2zg5tKVTHOTMQ0VmYsJPmk55I2s. 

Berry, M., et al. “Nanotechnology and Regenerative Therapeutics in Plastic Surgery: The next Frontier.” Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Churchill Livingstone, 6 Sept. 2015, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1748681515004106?casa_token=0XVt4GJgMPsAAAAA%3ARp9_zqtjFQbpxOCT3kq19p5F01EH_AQZrtGjpCngcHPuLuvN2zg5tKVTHOTMQ0VmYsJPmk55I2s. 

Surgeon, Professor Ash MosahebiConsultant Plastic, and Mr William A. Townley Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon. “Nanotechnology and Plastic Surgery.” Total Health, www.totalhealth.co.uk/clinical-experts/mr-ash-mosahebi/nanotechnology-and-plastic-surgery. Accessed 10 Nov. 2023.