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Updated: May 21, 2026

Surgical Approach to Full Soft Tissue Face Allograft Procurement for Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation
Published on: December 30, 2025
Simple technique for augmentation of the facial soft tissue
Francesco Inchingolo1, Marco Tatullo, Fabio M Abenavoli
1Department of Dental Sciences and Surgery, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy. f.inchingolo@doc.uniba.it
This study introduces a technique for facial soft tissue augmentation using autologous fascia and dense connective tissue. These tissues are harvested during other surgical procedures and then implanted into the perioral area. The method is quick, taking only a few minutes, and uses a needle for graft insertion. Over a 24-month follow-up, the grafted tissue maintained volume and matched the surrounding tissue in consistency. No complications were observed in 30 patients. The authors suggest that this technique may be a safe and effective option for facial enhancement, particularly for patients seeking natural-looking results.
Area of Science:
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Cosmetic Surgery Techniques
- Tissue Augmentation Methods
Background:
Many patients seek improvements in facial aesthetics, particularly the perioral region, alongside other cosmetic or reconstructive procedures. While various filler options exist, the use of autologous tissue remains underexplored. Prior research has shown that tissues like fascia and dense connective tissue can be repurposed in multiple surgical contexts. However, the specific application of these tissues for facial augmentation has not been widely documented. This gap motivated the exploration of autologous grafts for facial soft tissue augmentation. No prior work had resolved the long-term consistency and safety of such a technique. The challenge lies in finding a method that is both effective and minimally invasive. Surgeons often encounter suitable tissues during operations in the breast, abdomen, and face. The absence of standardized protocols for facial augmentation using these tissues highlights the need for further investigation.
Purpose Of The Study:
The goal was to evaluate a technique for facial soft tissue augmentation using autologous materials. Specifically, the focus was on the perioral area, which is frequently targeted in cosmetic procedures. The motivation stemmed from patient demand and the need for a safe, effective alternative to synthetic fillers. The technique involves harvesting and repositioning tissues encountered during surgery. The study aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and long-term outcomes of this approach. A key question was whether these tissues could integrate successfully and maintain volume over time. The authors also sought to determine the practicality of the procedure in terms of time and ease of execution. The ultimate aim was to provide a reliable, patient-friendly option for facial enhancement.
Main Methods:
The study utilized autologous fascia and dense connective tissue harvested during surgical procedures in the breast, abdomen, or face. These tissues were removed during operations and then reinserted into the perioral region. The grafts were placed using a needle, though alternative methods were also employed. The surgical process required only a few minutes for both removal and insertion. Patients were followed for up to 24 months to assess outcomes. The consistency of the grafted area was evaluated post-edema. The study included 30 patients who underwent the procedure. No synthetic materials were used in the augmentation process.
Main Results:
The procedure was completed in under five minutes for each patient. The grafted tissue integrated well, with a consistency matching the surrounding area after edema subsided. Volume retention was observed over a 24-month follow-up period. All 30 patients reported satisfactory outcomes. No complications or side effects were recorded during the study. The technique proved to be both safe and effective for facial augmentation. The use of autologous tissue minimized the risk of adverse reactions. The simplicity of the method allowed for quick execution during other surgical procedures.
Conclusions:
The authors propose that autologous fascia and connective tissue can be successfully used for facial soft tissue augmentation. The technique is described as safe, with no reported complications in the 30 patients studied. The results suggest that the grafted tissue integrates well and maintains volume over time. The authors emphasize the practicality of the method, noting its quick execution and minimal impact on the surgical process. The study does not claim that this approach is superior to all other augmentation techniques. The findings support the use of autologous tissue as a viable option for facial enhancement. The authors suggest that this method may be particularly suitable for patients seeking natural-looking results. The study does not generalize these findings to other facial regions or surgical contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
The core outcome is successful volume retention and tissue integration over 24 months with no complications in 30 patients.
The authors use autologous fascia and dense connective tissue harvested during other surgical procedures.
The needle allows for quick and precise graft placement, though other methods can also be used with equal success.
The follow-up confirms long-term volume retention and tissue consistency post-edema.
The removal and insertion process takes only a few minutes per patient.
The authors suggest that this technique may be a safe and effective option for facial soft tissue augmentation.
