Evaluation of nanofat injection in postburn and post-traumatic facial scars

Abstract

Background In addition to the physical deformity, there is often great psychological trauma due to facial scars among patients. Fat grafting in its various forms could be considered as a hallmark in scar rejuvenation therapy in the twenty-first century. This is due to the viable adipose-derived stem cells present in the nanofat. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nanofat grafting on postburn and post-traumatic facial scars using a standardized and validated scale [patient observer scar assessment scale (POSAS)] and photographs. Materials and methods A total of 20 patients with facial scars (10 patients post-traumatic and 10 patients postburn) were studied. Preoperative scoring of the scars was performed with the POSAS, and photographs were taken. Fat aspiration was performed from the lower abdomen and thighs using syringe liposuction under tumescent anesthesia. The lipoaspirate was mechanically emulsified, filtered, and injected intralesionally into the scar using a 27 G needle. Postoperative scar reassessment was performed at 3 months using the POSAS scale and photographs. The improvements in scar characteristics and symptoms were tested statistically. Results On statistical analysis, there was a statistically significant improvement in symptoms such as pain, itching, stiffness, thickness and irregularity and scar characteristics such as vascularity, relief, pliability, thickness, and pigmentation 3 months after injection. The photographic comparison also showed good anesthetic outcome. Conclusion Autologous emulsified nanofat injection is effective in improving the scar characteristics as well as symptoms and aiding in scar rejuvenation.