What ancient tool is being used by some plastic surgeons with apparently better results than its modern counterpart?

I'll take a stab: Leeches?

Although that certainly fits in one definition of the word tool, it is not what I am looking for. Besides, the use of leeches is hardly "ancient." The answer is an actual tool, an inanimate object used to perform a specific job or task.

DG, I am not sure what you mean by "Ancient" then. Leaches have been used for thousands of years to remove pooling blood and increase blood flow to damaged body parts. Certainly that fits MY concept of "ancient".

This particular tool hasn't been used in modern times until fairly recently. As a tool, it is ancient. My comment about leeches was meant to say that leeches are still used, and were used widely in Western medicine less than 200 years ago.

scapels?

Any particular kind, Sher?

Obsidian Scalpels
http://geology.about.com/gi/
dynamic/offsite.htm?site=http://www.finescience.com
/fst/ScalpelsKnives/10110%2D01.html

Wow! Interesting information and I no idea such a scalpel existed.

Good answer, SR!

Operations are being done employing obsidian scalpels, since its edge is 100 times sharper than steel ones. They out cut hand lasers and remain sharp,unlike a diamond blade...

Dr. Jeffrey Flenniken, at Washington State University, has made more scapels than for a hundred operations, using the unique obsidian scalpel for various minor operations to major ones such as open heart surgery. The obsidian scalpel reduces or almost eliminates scarring, speeds healing and causes less tissue damage.

Thanks to all who answered!