A simple device for syringe-to-syringe transfer during lipofilling.

Abstract

Since the end of the 19th century, autologous fat grafting has been performed often by plastic surgeons. The procedure evolved from work by Coleman, who developed the lipostructure technique.1 With the “Coleman technique,” fat tissue is extracted by nontraumatic liposuction, purified after centrifugation, and injected to fill tissues or to contribute cells to damaged tissues. Autologous fat grafting has many applications, including breast reconstruction, breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, primary and secondary facial lipoatrophy, liposuction sequelae, buttock augmentation, scar revision, and radiodermatitis. Grafted fat is an ideal filler because it is biocompatible, versatile, stable, long lasting, and provides a natural appearance; however, the results are dependent on technique.2 Many surgeons have refined their techniques to obtain long-term survival of adipocytes and to improve cosmetic results. When large amounts of adipose tissue are needed, such as in breast reconstruction, performing syringe aspiration or connecting syringes of different volumes can be tedious and time-consuming. The estimated mean volume of …