For Some, Stem Cell Procedures and Fillers More Costly Than Facelift Surgery in Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwired - Apr 30, 2013) - In light of ubiquitous media coverage on stem cell facial rejuvenation like the Vampire Facelift™ and mini facial procedures, Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. John LeRoy urges patients to research their facial rejuvenation options and possible results as traditional, surgical procedures may be more economical in the long run.

Innovator of the Band Aid Facelift, Dr. LeRoy pioneered his own minimally invasive surgical technique in 1997 to reduce patients' fine lines and wrinkles in-office with gentle numbing; however, he is insistent that patients understand what they can and cannot expect from "mini" and "lunchtime" anti-aging procedures.

"It's a common misconception that any 'facelift' type procedure is going to make you look as young, or younger, than traditional plastic surgery without the costs or downtime; however, this is rarely the case. The key to comprehensive facial rejuvenation is addressing loose underlying facial muscles and removing excess skin: both of which are infrequently addressed with procedures like BOTOX® Cosmetic or PRP / Stem Cell type procedures," says Dr. LeRoy. 

Dr. LeRoy also shares that these minimally invasive procedure results are typically temporary, often requiring maintenance treatments every few months. While he says it is true that the results of other surgical procedures like Band Aid Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) and the traditional facelift will eventually fade with advancing age and exposure to environmental factors, he notes that they are substantially more long-lasting.

In a 2011 report conducted by the joint task force for the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) to examine the safety of stem-cell based anti-aging treatments, the researchers surmised, "The marketing and promotion of stem cell procedures in aesthetic surgery is not adequately supported by clinical evidence at this time."

The National Institute of Health is currently financing a private study to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of stem cell enriched fat transfers for aesthetic procedures; however, Dr. LeRoy urges Atlanta plastic surgery patients to speak candidly with their board certified plastic surgeon or provider to answer FAQs on mini facial rejuvenation techniques.

"Medical technology is an ever-evolving field introducing novel techniques for facial rejuvenation. There are several convenient options to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging, but it's important for patients to separate marketing gimmicks from sound, time-tested science," concludes Dr. LeRoy. 

About John L. LeRoy, M.D., F.A.C.S. 

Dr. John LeRoy is an Atlanta-based plastic surgeon devoted to providing exceptional aesthetic care for over 20 years. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Georgia Society of Plastic Surgeons. He studied cosmetic surgery at the prestigious Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital in New York and is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American College of Surgeons. He is available for interview upon request.