Autologous injectable dermis: a clinical and histological study

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Current dermal fillers lack ideal solutions.
• Autologous dermis presents a potential filler material.
• The principle of "like with like" guides this approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an operator-friendly method for processing autologous dermis into an injectable filler.
• To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of using autologous injectable dermis for aesthetic and reconstructive purposes.

Main Methods:

• A prototype "cutting chamber" was developed to create injectable dermis.
• Autologous injectable dermis grafts were performed in 16 patients for lip/labionasal fold correction and 3 patients for reconstructive procedures.
• Grafts were harvested and histologically examined at 3, 7, and 12 months.

Main Results:

• Dermis processing and injection were feasible with minimal effort.
• All 16 patients achieved good volume maintenance at 12 months, with transient firmness resolving.
• Histological analysis revealed effective revascularization, structural reorganization, and collagen remodeling over time.

Conclusions:

• Autologous dermis is a feasible filler for aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
• This method is particularly suitable for patients undergoing procedures with potential donor dermis excision.
• The technique supports the "like with like" principle for tissue replacement.