Fibrin tissue adhesive for face- and necklift

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Biomaterials
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Fibrin-based tissue adhesives (FTAs) have had variable popularity in aesthetic surgery since the 1980s.
• While benefits like reduced hematoma and edema in facelifts are suggested, conclusive evidence is lacking.
• This study investigated FTAs' potential to distribute tension and minimize complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the hypothesis that FTAs reduce complications and revision rates in facelift surgery.
• To evaluate the efficacy of FTAs in managing tension and improving surgical outcomes.
• To provide evidence supporting the use of FTAs in aesthetic facial procedures.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study comparing 100 facelifts using FTAs with 100 preceding facelifts using drains.
• All surgeries performed by the senior author using standardized techniques.
• Statistical analysis using Fisher's exact test to compare complication rates.

Main Results:

• The study groups were comparable in demographics and comorbidities.
• Significantly fewer complications were observed in the FTA group (24 patients) compared to the drain group (p=0.048).
• Hypertrophic scarring was notably reduced in the FTA group (p=0.029); trends for lower revision and necrosis were observed but not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• Fibrin-based tissue adhesives (FTAs) can effectively reduce complications in facelift surgery, particularly hypertrophic scarring.
• The tension-distributing property of FTAs contributes to improved surgical outcomes.
• FTAs are now an integral component of the senior author's facelift practice due to demonstrated benefits.