While it may sound futuristic, the next revolution in medical aesthetics involves advanced point-of-care devices and accessories for internal procedures that require stem cells and other biocellular components to perform a variety of external aesthetic functions. At the forefront of these systems, Healeon Medical (Newbury Park, Calif.) offers a next-generation solution that delivers on this innovative concept.
The ALMI micronized fat system employs a closed syringe harvesting technique that progressively sizes extracted fat multiple times via an autologous cellular matrix (ACM) device. Subsequently, the micronized fat is typically used in combination with autologous platelets and other cellular components (such as stromal vascular fraction) for regeneration or repair of damaged tissues.
Utilizing this new approach, physicians have been quickly devising novel treatments involving facial rejuvenation, hair regrowth and penile enhancement for men. Regarding the latter, Edward Zimmerman, M.D., a cosmetic surgeon in Las Vegas, Nev., has developed the ManShot, which uses the ALMI fat transfer procedure to increase penile length and girth.
“This procedure has been a home run,” Dr. Zimmerman stated. “The ManShot rejuvenates the corpora cavernosa in order to make them more functional, and then you add girth and length. Girth can certainly be influenced by adding more volume with autologous fat.”
Previously, Dr. Zimmerman used synthetics, including hyaluronic acid-based fillers and calcium hydroxyapatite to rejuvenate the penis, “However, they didn’t provide enough girth in such a way that it made a difference,” he expressed. “With ALMI fat we are just replacing fat. We’re not changing or manipulating any tissues.”
Hair restoration via the ALMI procedure is also becoming popular, noted Tess Mauricio, M.D., a dermatologist in Beverly Hills, Calif. “Prior to ALMI, the only real solution for progressive hair loss for both men and women has been hair transplants. Today, specific areas of hair loss that I’ve injected with ALMI fat have seen amazing results.”
Dr. Mauricio offers patients the ALMI procedure in combination with a package of anti-aging services that includes postprocedure home treatments. “I ask them to consider the cost of hair transplantation, which does not really stop the progression of hair loss,” she said. “With the ALMI procedure, though, you are really interrupting the progression of hair loss.”
She has found people to be quite open to the ALMI process and PRP. “During the consult, I will explain that PRP is like fertilizer that works with fat and stem cells to encourage the body to regrow hair. Patients really understand that idea. I explain how simple the procedure is, and that it happens quickly under local anesthesia.”
In addition to employing ALMI for hair loss, Dr. Mauricio offers treatments for the face and hands, as well. “ALMI fat flows beautifully and you don’t get any of the nodules you would see when using older fat transfer methods.”
In Dr. Zimmerman’s opinion, the ALMI procedure can potentially open new markets for many practitioners. “We have seen quite encouraging results,” he said. “I think we are going to find more ways to use this material, as well.”
