Fibrin tissue adhesion and its use in rhytidectomy: a pilot study.

In a series of 82 consecutive personal cases of rhytidectomy, a two-component tissue adhesive was used to glue the cheek-skin down to its underlying tissues. The use of most of the sutures in front of the ear, in the visible area, could be spared by this technique. The diminished (or absent) postoperative swelling and the reduction of secretion in the first 24 hours were most impressive. Some operating time can be saved as well and the comfort of the patient is remarkably increased over the healing period. Postoperative complications were entirely absent and the primary results most pleasing. Nothing can as yet be said regarding long-term results, since the time of 18 months is too short for any such statement. The comparatively small additional costs incurred seem very much worthwhile for these selective operations.