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Background: Studies have documented an increase in collagen production and acceleration of the scarring process when galvanic electrostimulation of less than 300 mV is used, but the effects of electrostimulation with characteristics different from those usually studied are unknown., Methods: Electrostimulators were designed and manufactured specifically for the study. A total of 40 rats were divided into 10 groups, with 4 randomly selected rats in each group. Five groups received smooth implants, and the remaining five groups received textured implants. The first group was designated as the control group, and the remaining four groups received electrostimulation in differing amounts from the 3rd to the 15th postoperative day., Results: The type of implant used was not a determining factor in the degree of capsular contracture encountered. In the groups that received less than 300 mV, showed greater capsule thickness than the control group. The group that received 600 mV, had a thinner periprosthetic capsule than the control group and all the other groups. All the results were statistically significant., Conclusions: Electrostimulation using direct galvanic current with reversal of polarity on postoperative day 3 at intensities of 600 mV inhibits the process of periprosthetic capsular formation in rats.

Background: We have found that the use of microfat grafts can improve the contour of the face., Objective: We describe our technique for facial contour augmentation using microlipofilling and present the results of 32 cases treated between 1995 and 2002., Methods: We conducted a preoperative evaluation, including photographic and radiologic studies, to determine for which patients the procedure was appropriate and to identify the need for additional procedures. Fat was harvested with the use of 10-mL syringes with 14-gauge needles. Only 5 mL of fat was harvested in each syringe. After the donated fat was washed and fragmented, it was infiltrated by means of a percutaneous approach with 18- or 20-gauge needles to reduce trauma and avoid scarring. Thin (2-mm-wide) rolls of fat grafts were placed in well-vascularized tissues to prevent absorption. The amount of fat infiltrated depended on the flatness of the area., Results: All patients had satisfactory outcomes after follow-up ranging from 1 to 5 years. Complications were rare., Conclusions: With appropriate placement, facial contour augmentation with microlipofilling is a safe, simple, inexpensive aesthetic procedure that provides consistent, long-term aesthetic improvement.