Plastic Surgery

Research in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Appointment New Patient Appointment or 214-645-8300

Appointment New Patient Appointment or 214-645-8300

Plastic surgery research at UT Southwestern helps patients achieve effective, natural, and long-lasting results. Our efforts have led to discoveries, advanced techniques, and various innovations that improve clinical outcomes.

UT Southwestern Plastic Surgery has groundbreaking research underway in:

  • Anatomical studies
  • Facial aging
  • Wound management and healing
  • Using stem cells in reconstructive and surgical procedures
  • How adipose (fat) cells work
  • The effectiveness of devices and new technology
  • Abdominal wall reconstruction
  • Nerve regeneration and growth
  • Additional areas that advance patient care

How Our Research Translates to Better Results

Here are just a few of the areas already influencing patient care:

  • Our team has identified many characteristics of the fat pads that compose regions of the face, as well as how they change over a person’s life. Understanding this element has a significant impact on individualizing facial rejuvenation procedures to achieve results that look natural and last as long as possible.
  • We have investigated how stem cells can promote healing.
  • Our discoveries with flaps and graft techniques for breast reconstruction, along with surgical innovations, are increasing options to create new breasts that look and feel natural for patients with cancer.
  • Our research includes understanding which products and techniques are more effective in preventing and decreasing scar formation after surgery.
  • We know more now about how Botox® can be used to treat migraines.
  • Because of our work with lasers, UT Southwestern Plastic Surgery has been at the forefront of work to determine the safety and efficacy of new technology on body contouring (laser liposuction, for example).
  • We have more than 100 preclinical and clinical studies designed to examine various devices, drugs, and techniques.

Committed to Education in Plastic Surgery

One aspect of our mission is teaching the next generation of plastic surgeons, as well as our colleagues currently in practice. UT Southwestern’s Plastic Surgery residencies are among the most sought after in the country. Additionally, plastic surgeons from all parts of the world attend our symposia and teaching conferences on cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Ongoing training helps us deliver care to patients that is safe, effective, and up to date.