Fat, fillers, and a "funnel" that may minimize a common cause of breast implant complications are among the hot topics in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. Meanwhile, the acquisition by Actavis of Allergan – a leading player in the aesthetics market with BOTOX and breast implants – has the combined company poised for long-term double-digit revenue and earnings growth.

The dealmaking column is a survey of recent transactions, including strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions, and financings, in the life sciences industries. Deals are listed by the following industry sectors: in vitro diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research/analytical instrumentation and reagents. All transactions are excerpted from Windhover's Strategic Transactions database, providing comprehensive transaction coverage from 1991 to the present.