Stromal vascular fraction and emulsified fat as regenerative tools in rejuvenation of the lower eyelid area

Abstract

In the lower eyelid area, dermal melanocytosis, fine lines, skin atrophy, dryness, and loss of subcutaneous fat tissue represent the initial signs of aging. Beside the addition of volume, adipose tissue injections can also improve pigmentation and skin texture. Clinical studies of simultaneous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and emulsified fat transfers have not been reported so far. Our aim was to investigate the clinical results of transferring SVF and emulsified fat into the lower eyelid area. A total of 16 patients underwent tumescent liposuction and injection of SVF and emulsified fat into the lower eyelid area. For preparation of SVF and emulsified fat, ACP double syringes with 2.4, 1.4, and 1.2 mm connectors, and a swing-out rotor centrifuge, were used. At follow-up, improvements on before and after pictures were rated by the treating physician and two independent physicians, using the global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS). Clinical outcomes were rated as exceptional, very improved, or improved in all patients, with an average GAIS score of 1.6. No serious adverse events occurred. Our initial results suggest that SVF and emulsified fat are safe and effective tools for skin rejuvenation and correction of volume deficiencies in the lower eyelid area. More studies need to be conducted to corroborate these encouraging findings.