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A non-surgical nose job may soon become a reality thanks to a technique that uses tiny needles, electric current and 3D printed molds to reshape living tissue.
The process promises to revolutionize cosmetic surgery, which often involves long recovery times and can lead to scarring.
Dr. Michael Hill, of Occidental College in the United States, said, "We are considering this new technique as a low-cost office procedure performed under local anesthesia.
"The whole process takes about five minutes."
Cartilage consists of tiny, stiff fibers that are woven together in a structure that resembles spaghetti.
Scientists have found that tissues containing a higher density of electrically charged molecules are more rigid than those with a lower "charge density".
Dr. Hill's team discovered that pbading the current through the cartilage makes the tissue more malleable.
"Once the fabric is soft, you can shape it as you like," he said.
The technique was tested on a rabbit whose ears were normally erect.
Using a micro-needle mold and electrodes, the researchers were able to bend one of the ears without damaging it.
Cutting the current allowed the cartilage to harden in its new form, after which the mold was removed.
Scientists, who are studying different licensing options for this technique with medical device manufacturers, presented their findings at a meeting of the American Chemical Society in Orlando, Florida.
Independent Irish
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