Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
5.2
2.9
Journals
JCM
Special Issues
Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions
jcm-logo
Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for JCM Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions

A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery/Aesthetic Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 July 2026 | Viewed by 17599

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Philip Brazio

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Division of Plastic Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
Interests: reconstructive microsurgery; breast reconstruction; lymphatic reconstruction
Dr. Edward C. Ray

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Division of Plastic Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
Interests: transgender care; artificial intelligence; plastic surgery

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Technological developments influence the practice of plastic surgery and its place in society at ever-increasing speed. Every advance brings unforeseen obstacles. The future of plastic surgery depends on adapting to these transformations and looking to the future with innovative solutions.

The aim of this Special Issue is to curate a collection of at least 10 articles that illustrate medical, technological, and clinical challenges that shape the clinical practice of plastic and reconstructive surgery and propose forward-facing responses to these challenges.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Interaction of social media and technology with clinical outcomes and perception of outcomes;
  • Role of artificial intelligence in the clinical practice of plastic surgery, plastic surgery research, and the business of plastic surgery;
  • Emerging fields in reconstructive surgery and their integration within the larger practice of medicine.

We invite original research articles and reviews on these topics. We look forward to your contributions to this important discourse.

Dr. Philip Brazio
Dr. Edward C. Ray
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Clinical Medicine is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • plastic surgery
  • reconstructive surgery
  • esthetic surgery
  • innovation
  • challenges
  • technology

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

19 pages, 2995 KB  
Article
Gatekeeper or Pathfinder? The Evolving Role of Lymphedema Surgeons in the Assessment of Limb Swelling
by Judith Monzy, Yasmina Samaha, Shelby Chun Fat, Eileen Lu, Christopher Pham, Edward C. Ray and Philip S. Brazio
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(4), 1322; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15041322 - 7 Feb 2026
Viewed by 394
Abstract
Background: Lymphedema is a debilitating condition with high morbidity, yet despite advances in management, diagnostic ambiguity and fragmented referral patterns continue to delay appropriate care. We evaluated predictors of accurate diagnosis, microsurgical reconstruction candidacy, and secondary referrals generated during consultation with a lymphatic [...] Read more.
Background: Lymphedema is a debilitating condition with high morbidity, yet despite advances in management, diagnostic ambiguity and fragmented referral patterns continue to delay appropriate care. We evaluated predictors of accurate diagnosis, microsurgical reconstruction candidacy, and secondary referrals generated during consultation with a lymphatic microsurgeon to highlight the need for a coordinated model of care. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed for all outpatient referrals for ‘lymphedema’ from September 2020 to September 2021. Patient demographics, diagnostics, referral patterns, and lymphedema-related clinical data were collected. Results: 94 patients were referred for evaluation of possible lymphedema; lymphoscintigraphy confirmed diagnosis in 69. Following consultation, 23 patients received referrals for physical therapy, 17 for vascular surgery, and 8 for bariatric surgery or medical weight loss. Patients without lymphedema were more often referred to vascular surgery than those with lymphedema. Non-surgical candidates were more frequently referred to therapy or weight loss. Conclusions: Incorporating microsurgical reconstructive expertise into the evaluation of limb swelling improves diagnostic accuracy and refers patients- regardless of lymphedema status or surgical candidacy- to appropriate specialists. We propose a pathfinder model for patient flow that streamlines triage, improves access to accurate diagnosis and treatment, and prevents overburdening microsurgical practices with non-surgical patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

16 pages, 254 KB  
Review
Robotic Horizons in Plastic Surgery: A Look Toward the Future
by Ali Foroutan, Diwakar Phuyal, Georgia Babb, Julia Ting, Ghazal Mashhadiagha, Niayesh Najafi, Risal Djohan, Sarah N. Bishop and Graham S. Schwarz
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020602 - 12 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 954
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Robotic technology has transformed several surgical specialties, offering enhanced precision, visualization, and dexterity. In plastic and reconstructive surgery, robotic systems are increasingly utilized across a range of procedures, though their applications remain in early development. Methods: A review of the literature was [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Robotic technology has transformed several surgical specialties, offering enhanced precision, visualization, and dexterity. In plastic and reconstructive surgery, robotic systems are increasingly utilized across a range of procedures, though their applications remain in early development. Methods: A review of the literature was performed to identify studies reporting robot-assisted procedures in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The literature was synthesized thematically to characterize current procedural applications, emerging technologies, and areas of active clinical investigation. Results: Robotic systems have been reported in a broad range of plastic and reconstructive procedures, including flap harvest, microsurgery, breast reconstruction, craniofacial and head and neck reconstruction, esthetic surgery, and gender-affirming surgery. The existing studies primarily consist of case series and case reports with substantial variability in reported indications, techniques, and technological platforms. Comparative clinical outcomes and long-term data are limited. Conclusions: Robot-assisted reconstruction continues to expand across multiple procedural domains. However, current evidence remains largely descriptive, underscoring the need for standardized reporting and prospective studies to better define clinical value, safety, and appropriate indications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
12 pages, 4149 KB  
Review
Projected Augmented Reality in Surgery: History, Validation, and Future Applications
by Nikhil Dipak Shah, Lohrasb Sayadi, Peyman Kassani and Raj Vyas
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 8246; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14228246 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1209
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Projected augmented reality (PAR) enables real-time projection of digital surgical information directly onto the operative field. This offers a hands-free, headset-free platform that is universally visible to all members of the surgical team. Compared to head-mounted display systems, which are limited by [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Projected augmented reality (PAR) enables real-time projection of digital surgical information directly onto the operative field. This offers a hands-free, headset-free platform that is universally visible to all members of the surgical team. Compared to head-mounted display systems, which are limited by restricted fields of view, ergonomic challenges, and user exclusivity, PAR provides a more intuitive and collaborative surgical interface. When paired with artificial intelligence (AI), PAR has the potential to automate aspects of surgical planning and deliver high-precision guidance in both high-resource and global health settings. Our team is working on the development and validation of a PAR platform to dynamically project surgical and anatomic markings directly onto the patients intraoperatively. Methods: We developed a PAR system using a structured light scanner and depth camera to generate digital 3D surface reconstructions of a patient’s anatomy. Surgical markings were then made digitally, and a projector was used to precisely project these points directly onto the patient’s skin. We also developed a trained machine learning model that detects cleft lip landmarks and automatically designs surgical markings, with the plan to integrate this into our PAR system. Results: The PAR system accurately projected surgeon and AI-generated surgical markings onto anatomical models with sub-millimeter precision. Projections remained aligned during movement and were clearly visible to the entire surgical team without requiring wearable hardware. Conclusions: PAR integrated with AI provides accurate, real-time, and shared intraoperative guidance. This platform improves surgical precision and has broad potential for remote mentorship and global surgical training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 283 KB  
Review
Immortality Reconsidered: Clinical Challenges at the Frontier of Plastic Surgery
by Helen Xun, Audrey K. Mustoe, Maria J. Escobar, Zion Chan, Andrea Moreira, Sarvam TerKonda, Lynn Jeffers and Bernard T. Lee
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 7973; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14227973 - 10 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1700
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Immortality and anti-aging research is accelerating, with implications across medicine. This narrative review explores the biological principles, translational innovations, and ethical considerations at the intersection of aging and plastic surgery, reframed for a broad clinical audience. Methods: A narrative review of the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Immortality and anti-aging research is accelerating, with implications across medicine. This narrative review explores the biological principles, translational innovations, and ethical considerations at the intersection of aging and plastic surgery, reframed for a broad clinical audience. Methods: A narrative review of the literature from PubMed, clinical trials, and translational studies was conducted, with emphasis on regenerative medicine, stem cells, tissue engineering, gene editing, and longevity pharmacologics within the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Results: Key themes include (1) the biology of aging and epigenetic reprogramming, (2) esthetic and regenerative innovations with broader clinical significance, (3) emerging genetic and pharmacologic longevity strategies, (4) ethical and regulatory challenges, and (5) future directions such as nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and digital immortality. Conclusions: Immortality remains an aspirational frontier, but innovations in regenerative science and longevity research offer opportunities for improving healthspans. Medicine as a whole must balance innovation with ethics, equity, and safety in translating these discoveries to patient care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
35 pages, 5150 KB  
Review
The Challenges of Postoperative Tissue Flap Vitality Monitoring in Obese Individuals
by Jerzy Jankau, Ignacy Rogoń, Mariusz Kaczmarek, Agnieszka Rogoń, Monika Stołyhwo-Gofron and Jerzy Wtorek
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(21), 7777; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14217777 - 2 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1538
Abstract
The global rise in obesity presents significant challenges for reconstructive surgery. Effective postoperative monitoring of tissue flap vitality is essential for successful outcomes, but obesity introduces complexities that can hinder accurate assessments. This article examines the specific challenges associated with monitoring tissue flap [...] Read more.
The global rise in obesity presents significant challenges for reconstructive surgery. Effective postoperative monitoring of tissue flap vitality is essential for successful outcomes, but obesity introduces complexities that can hinder accurate assessments. This article examines the specific challenges associated with monitoring tissue flap viability in individuals with obesity, focusing on how obesity-related physiological changes affect the effectiveness of various monitoring techniques. We explore alterations in subcutaneous adipose tissue—such as thickness, density, and volume—as well as changes in vessel structure, blood pressure, glucose levels, lactate levels, and tissue perfusion. These factors can impact the accuracy and reliability of monitoring methods. A deep understanding of these challenges is crucial for determining the suitability of different monitoring systems for patients with obesity undergoing flap reconstruction. Based on a review of clinical experience, we assess the usability of widely used monitoring devices, including ultrasound Doppler, near-infrared spectroscopy, and laser Doppler flowmetry, in patients with obesity. Non-conventional techniques such as glucose and lactate measurements, thermography, and fluorescence angiography are also investigated. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the relationship between obesity and tissue flap monitoring, ultimately helping to select the most appropriate and effective methods for this patient population. By considering these factors, surgeons in cooperation with engineers can optimize postoperative care and enhance the likelihood of successful flap reconstruction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1193 KB  
Review
Harnessing Regenerative Science in Aesthetic Surgery: The Biologically Driven Future
by Claire G. Olivas, Orr Shauly, Dana M. Hutchison and Daniel J. Gould
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(17), 6205; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14176205 - 2 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3667
Abstract
As the fields of plastic surgery and dermatology advance, regenerative medicine is positioned to play a transformative role in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. This narrative review examines current and emerging applications of biologic therapies, including exosomes, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and adipose-derived stem [...] Read more.
As the fields of plastic surgery and dermatology advance, regenerative medicine is positioned to play a transformative role in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. This narrative review examines current and emerging applications of biologic therapies, including exosomes, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) with an emphasis on their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and regulatory considerations. We also explore synergistic strategies, such as the combined use of biologics with laser-based technologies, which may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Looking forward, we highlight promising developments in mitochondrial-based therapies, microRNA-based therapies, synthetic exosome mimetics, and AI-assisted biologic design, offering a framework for personalized, precision-driven interventions. By synthesizing existing clinical data alongside scientific and ethical challenges, this narrative review provides a comprehensive perspective on how regenerative therapies are transforming the landscape of aesthetics. Ultimately, successful integration of these innovations will require rigorous validation, ethical responsibility, and a patient-centered approach by plastic surgeons and dermatologists to ensure both safety and accessibility in mainstream practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 380 KB  
Review
The Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Challenges and Opportunities
by Masab Mansoor and Andrew F. Ibrahim
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2698; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082698 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6705
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study comprehensively examines how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming clinical practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery across the entire patient care continuum, with the specific objective of identifying evidence-based applications, implementation challenges, and emerging opportunities that will shape the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study comprehensively examines how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are transforming clinical practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery across the entire patient care continuum, with the specific objective of identifying evidence-based applications, implementation challenges, and emerging opportunities that will shape the future of the specialty. Methods: A comprehensive narrative review was conducted analyzing the integration of AI technologies in plastic surgery, including preoperative planning, intraoperative applications, postoperative monitoring, and quality improvement. Challenges related to implementation, ethics, and regulatory frameworks were also examined, along with emerging technological trends that will shape future practice. Results: AI applications in plastic surgery demonstrate significant potential across multiple domains. In preoperative planning, AI enhances risk assessment, outcome prediction, and surgical simulation. Intraoperatively, AI-assisted robotics enables increased precision and technical capabilities beyond human limitations, particularly in microsurgery. Postoperatively, AI improves complication detection, pain management, and outcomes assessment. Despite these benefits, implementation faces challenges including data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, liability questions, and the need for appropriate regulatory frameworks. Future directions include multimodal AI systems, federated learning approaches, and integration with extended reality and regenerative medicine technologies. Conclusions: The integration of AI into plastic surgery represents a significant opportunity to enhance surgical precision, improve outcome prediction, and expand the boundaries of what is surgically possible. However, successful implementation requires addressing ethical considerations and maintaining the human elements of surgical care. Plastic surgeons must actively engage with AI development to ensure these technologies address genuine clinical needs while aligning with the specialty’s core values of restoring form and function, alleviating suffering, and enhancing quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastic Surgery: Challenges and Future Directions)
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-7
Back to TopTop