The ASERF Scientific Research Committee and Board of Directors are pleased to announce the following grant award notification.

Researcher: Anand K. Deva, MD

Sponsor Name:

Grant Awarded: Allergan Foundation Breast and Cosmetic Medicine Grant

Amount Awarded: $25,000

Project Name: Treatment of surface bacterial biofilms using an in vitro model

Project Summary:

We have previously reported the importance of bacterial biofilms as a cause of capsular contracture surrounding mammary implants. Our hypothesis is that staphylococcus epidermidis, a member of the resident flora of the breast, gains access to the implant surface either at the time of surgery or via hematogenous spread following implantation. We have now developed an in vitro model that allows surface testing of both physical and chemical modalities of treatment of bacterial biofilms. We seek to test novel antibacterials and silver coatings and their ability to effectively treat and remove surface biofilms. It is hoped that the data from these investigations will have direct clinical applications to the treatment and prevention of periprosthetic capsular contracture following breast augmentation/reconstruction.

ASERF MISSION: The purpose of the Foundation is to identify and pursue those issues relevant to the advancement, effectiveness and safety of aesthetic surgery through directed research and education for the purpose of benefiting patients, physicians and this entire field of medicine.