Overview of major considerations in fat grafting: from harvesting to placement in the recipient site

StageKey issuesDetails
Donor selectionDonor ageYounger donors may have higher proliferation rates and regenerative potential
Donor sexPotential hormonal influences affecting adipose tissue-derived stem cell (ASC) functionality
Donor health statusConditions like obesity, diabetes, and systemic inflammation can impair ASC functionality
Anatomical site of fat harvestingVariability in cellular composition, vascularity, and stem cell content based on the harvest site
Fat harvestingTechniqueMethods such as liposuction technique (manual vs. power-assisted) can impact cell viability
Harvest siteDifferent body areas may yield varying quality and quantity of ASCs
ProcessingIsolation of ASCsTechniques for isolating ASCs from fat can affect the viability and functionality of the cells
Purification methodsMethods like centrifugation or filtration can influence the quality of the graft
Additives and enhancementsUse of growth factors, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or other additives to improve graft outcomes
Graft preparationVolume of fatThe amount of fat prepared for grafting can impact integration and survival
Cell concentrationThe optimal concentration of ASCs within the graft is crucial for success
Placement techniqueInjection techniqueThe method of injecting fat (e.g., microdroplet, linear threading) affects distribution and survival
Layering and integration strategyProper layering techniques to promote vascularization and integration
Postoperative careMonitoring and follow-upRegular monitoring to assess graft survival and integration
Management of complicationsAddressing issues such as fat necrosis, cyst formation, and infection
Optimization of patient healthEnsuring optimal patient health to support graft survival and integration
Long-term outcomesGraft retention ratesVariability in retention rates ranging from 10% to 80% within the first year
Assessment of functional and aesthetic resultsEvaluating both the functional improvement and aesthetic enhancement over time
Impact of donor-related factorsLong-term studies on how donor characteristics influence outcomes