Plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor has received the 2026 Best Cosmetic Medicine Paper Award from Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS), the official journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, for his paper "Injectable Safety: New Concepts and Best Practices in Hyaluronic Acid Filler Safety." He will be presented with the award at Plastic Surgery The Meeting (PSTM) 2026 in Houston this October.
The paper provides a comprehensive literature review examining current techniques, evolving safety concepts, and best practices for reducing complications associated with hyaluronic acid filler treatments, one of the most commonly performed nonsurgical aesthetic procedures. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an 8 percent increase in the use of hyaluronic acid filler from 2022 to 2023.
Drawing on a systematic review of published literature from 2020 to 2025, the paper examines injection technique and safety considerations across treatment areas including the upper face, nose, tear trough, midface, lips, and chin. It also highlights emerging concepts in the field, including hybrid fillers that combine hyaluronic acid with biostimulatory compounds, and the growing use of ultrasound guidance to help injectors map individual patient vasculature and reduce the risk of vascular complications. The paper further addresses how filler migration and residual product can complicate later surgical procedures in previously injected areas.
"This recognition reflects the importance of grounding filler safety practices in the full body of published evidence," said Dr. R. Brannon Claytor, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Main Line Health and board member of The Aesthetic Society. "As hyaluronic acid fillers become increasingly popular, this review gives clinicians a clearer picture of the anatomy, technique, and product knowledge needed to minimize risk and support good outcomes for patients."
Dr. Claytor's research contributions extend beyond this award. His 2026 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum examined recovery protocols for CO2 laser and microneedling treatments. As a Castle Connolly Top Doctor with more than 20 years of experience, he regularly teaches nationally on plastic surgery techniques and safety protocols.
Dr. Claytor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek. He has been named a Top Doctor by Philadelphia Magazine and Main Line Today for multiple consecutive years. His practice specializes in facial rejuvenation procedures, including the deep plane facelift, as well as advanced breast and body contouring surgery, and he operates out of a private, AAAHC-accredited surgical facility serving patients throughout the Philadelphia Main Line region. Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery is located at 135 S Bryn Mawr Ave, Suite 300, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. To learn more about Dr. Claytor's practice and research, visit the Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery website or call 610-527-4833.
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For more information about Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, contact the company here:
Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery
Dr. R. Brannon Claytor
(610) 527-4833
info@cnplasticsurgery.com
135 S Bryn Mawr Ave Suite 300, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
