INTRODUCTION: The fact that adult tissues have stem cells with pluripotential capacity starts a new wave of research, especially because it dismisses immunologic problems and ethic and religious questions. Plastic Surgery arouses interest recently and participates in stem cell researches since the adipose tissue and skin became sources of stem cells both for acquisition and differentiation. It opens new perspectives for congenital and acquired deformities with esthetic and reconstructive purpose. OBJECTIVE: To show actual stage of adult and somatic stem cell published researches, especially stem cell derived from fat and skin and the perspectives of cellular therapy for Plastic Surgery. METHODS: We use Medline system (http://www.bireme.br/php/index.php), searching articles between 1997 and 2009, LILACS system by the same electronic address and period, at last, the search engine Google (www.google.com.br) for the same period. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Recent published studies of stem cells related with Plastic Surgery show new perspectives for correction of acquired and congenital deformities, scar alterations, burns, stria, hiper and hipocromic spots and partnership with obtention and prepare of fat and skin to be used in other medical specialties. Studies are multiplying around the world and is very important that Plastic Surgery be engaged and attentive to this promising area of research and treatment.
Stem cells; Adipose tissue; Tissue engineering
