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Free fat transplantation for facial tissue augmentation
A Cortese1, G Savastano, L Felicetta
1Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Federico II, Napoli, Cattedra di Chirurgia Maxillo Facciale, Italy.
Summary
Lipofilling, a fat grafting technique, shows good results for facial contouring and correcting lipodystrophy and Romberg syndrome. However, outcomes were poor for lip augmentation and scar revision due to vascularity and motility issues.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Aesthetic Medicine
Background:
- Lipofilling involves transplanting autologous fat tissue for tissue augmentation.
- The technique aims to improve contour defects and volume loss.
- Fat grafting has evolved with various methods for tissue harvesting and preparation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy of the lipofilling technique for various aesthetic and reconstructive purposes.
- To evaluate outcomes based on anatomical location and indication.
- To identify factors influencing the success of fat grafting.
Main Methods:
- A review of 14 patients undergoing lipofilling between 1989 and 1997.
- Procedures included augmentation of cheek/zygomatic areas, nasolabial fold correction, and lip augmentation.
- Fat tissue suspension was obtained via manual or vacuum-assisted suction using 3-4 mm cannulas.
Main Results:
- Good results were achieved in 10 out of 14 patients.
- Successful outcomes were noted for Romberg syndrome, bilateral facial lipodystrophy, and nasolabial fold correction.
- Poor results were observed in lip augmentation and systemic lupus erythematosus scar correction.
Conclusions:
- Lipofilling is effective for specific facial contouring and defect correction when performed with techniques preserving fat cell integrity.
- Areas with reduced vascularity and high motility present challenges for successful fat graft survival.
- Careful patient selection and technique optimization are crucial for favorable lipofilling outcomes.