Regenerative Cells For Facial Surgery: Biofilling and Biocontouring

Zuk et al in 2001 identified stem and regenerative cells within the stromal vascular fraction of fat. In preclinical studies, these cells appeared to stimulate angiogenesis and reduce inflammation, and soon thereafter, clinical use of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) evolved as researchers such as Rigotti, Coleman, Mojallal, our group, and others demonstrated that fat can be used for both therapeutic and aesthetic indications. The regenerative effects of fat and its contents on facial aesthetics have been shown at the histologic and cellular level. Regeneration of elastin and collagen fibers as well as improvement in capillary density and reduction of inflammation have been reported. We review our current approach to the use of regenerative cells and different types of fat grafts in facial surgery. The fat graft is classified, both from a regenerative point of view as well as a tissue product that can be modified into different tissue characteristics, depending on the area and condition treated. Clinical use of SVF enriched fat, millifat, microfat, and nanofat grafts as well as composite fat grafts are reviewed. Based on clinical experience and evidence to date, it appears that the regenerative effects seen with the use of SVF in aesthetic surgery are modest, but there appear to be definite histologic findings of regeneration. These improvements may not be clinically apparent to a patient when cell enriched fat grafts are compared to fat grafts alone. However, the subtle changes seen in histology may be cumulative over time. Three types of fat grafts are defined: millifat (parcel size 2.4<), microfat (1.2<), and nanofat (400-600 mu m). Each are characterized by their injectability ratings and emulsification parcel size as well as amount of sSVF cells. Newer concepts of periosteal fat grafting, buccal fat pad grafting, pyriform aperture fat grafting, intraorbital fat grafting, and nanofat grafting are discussed. Composite fat grafts are presented as a new concept as is biofilling and biocontouring. The use of regenerative cells in facial surgery is evolving rapidly. Our understanding of the anatomic changes that occur with aging has become more precise and our ability to target histologic changes seen with aging has become more effective. Deep fat compartment grafting, superficial fat grafting, nanofat, and SVF are becoming important components of contemporary facial rejuvenation. The use of regenerative approaches in facial rejuvenation is a logical step in changing the paradigm from surgical treatment of aging to a more proactive prevention and maintenance approach that keeps up with changes in the tissues as they age.