The efficacy and safety of autologous stromal vascular fraction transplantation for infraorbital skin rejuvenation: A clinical prospective study

Background The stromal vascular fraction of fat tissue contributes to its rejuvenation properties. The stromal vascular fraction is a minimal processed cell population. Therefore, it is purportedly a suitable cell therapy for skin rejuvenation. Objectives This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transplantation of autologous stromal vascular fraction to aging skin in the infraorbital region. Patients/Methods. Nineteen patients were candidates for stromal vascular fraction isolation and transplantation. They underwent lipoaspiration of the abdomen to obtain samples of fat tissue. The stromal vascular fraction was thereafter harvested and transplanted in each infraorbital area. The patients' outcomes were measured and were based on surface evaluation of wrinkles, surface evaluation of scaliness, and melanin evaluation with a Mexameter. The red blood cell volume and skin elasticity were measured with an erythrometer and cutometer, respectively. Results Three months and 6 months after autologous stromal vascular fraction transplantation, the elasticity, wrinkle, and pigmentation of the infraorbital skin improved significantly, but not surface evaluation of scaliness and erythema. The phenotype also improved in the infraorbital skin area, as evaluated by physicians. Conclusion The stromal vascular fraction of adipose tissue represents an attractive cell source. In our study, preliminary data showed that clinical outcomes were also generally satisfactory with no serious adverse effects. Thus, stromal vascular fraction cells are safe for clinical rejuvenation use. We encourage future evidence-based controlled studies to maintain a strong focus on the efficacy and safety profile of stromal vascular fraction therapy.