4D-Morphing biopolymers in reconstructive plastic surgery: implications, challenges and a call for clinical-translation

The concept behind 4D morphing biopolymers represents a further improvement in reconstructive plastic surgery, as it can now create scaffolds that are stimulus-responsive, allowing them to exhibit flexibility in shape and functionality once implanted. Such materials have the potential to address the shortcomings of conventional autologous reconstruction through enhanced integration, vascularization, and minimally invasive implantation. Nevertheless, significant issues of translation, regulation, and ethics remain, underscoring the need for in vivo research, surgeon-engineer partnerships, and fair clinical practice.