Scottsdale – Fat grafting in plastic surgery is not new, but a new study published in the September issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery outlines results which demonstrate a positive effect of fat grafting on human skin. The study was conducted in France.  According to the researchers, the aim of this study was to investigate the histologic modifications of the skin after fat tissue grafting on an animal model.

In the study 30 nude mice, divided into three groups, were used. All 30 mice received human fat tissue on one side. On the opposite side, 10 mice received nothing (negative control group), 10 mice received cell proliferation medium, and the remaining 10 mice received only subcutaneous tunneling. After 8 weeks the investigators analyzed the tissues via biopsy of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.  Dermis thickness was measured.  To differentiate human from mice collagen fibers, human and murine (mice) collagen type I antibodies were used.

The results found human fat tissue was in all animals and appeared normal, with abundant peripheral neo-vascularization (establishing a new blood supply). Examination under the microscope, showed abundant extracellular matrix around the injected human fat tissue. This was primarily type I collagen fibers of mice origin as a result of the murine fibroblast stimulation by the grafted human fat tissue. Dermal thickness after fat grafting was significantly greater. The researchers excluded inflammation as a cause of the increased thickness because no modification was detected in our control groups.

For years, plastic surgeons have been reporting improved skin quality after fat grafting. However, a biologic mechanism has not been fully elucidated to account for these observations.  This study demonstrates the biologic steps which lead to improved skin quality.  Based on the findings, it is safe to say that the generation of collagen in the overlying skin produces several positive effects. Overall, this study shows that fat tissue grafting stimulates a neo-synthesis of collagen fibers at the recipient site and makes the dermis thicker.  However, I agree with the investigators that long-term effects remain undetermined and need further investigation.