Aesthetic treatments with stem cells obtained from fat are among the treatments that have become increasingly widespread in the field of aesthetics in recent years. This innovative method aims to restructure the skin tissue and provide a younger appearance using stem cells obtained from the person's own fat tissue.
Thanks to the regenerative effect of stem cells, skin elasticity increases, and signs of ageing such as fine lines and volume loss are visibly reduced. For patients seeking natural and long-lasting results in particular, skin rejuvenation with fat-derived stem cells offers a safe and effective option.
A Regenerative Aesthetic Approach with Fat Tissue
Fat tissue-based treatments, one of the innovative methods used in aesthetic surgery, stand out thanks to their natural appearance and tissue compatibility. Fat taken from the person’s own body is regarded as a safe material in reshaping and rejuvenation procedures.
Fat injections do not only add volume; with their living cells they also have a restorative effect that improves skin quality. These treatments produce longer-lasting and more effective results, especially when supported by stem cell technology.
What is fat injection and how is it performed?
Fat injection is a procedure in which fat removed by liposuction is processed and injected into the areas that need it. With this method, unwanted fat is removed from the body and a natural filler material is obtained at the same time.
The fat harvested during the procedure is processed under sterile conditions and applied in appropriate amounts to the area to be injected. Depending on the patient’s needs, the procedure can be completed in a short time under local or general anaesthesia.
What is the difference with stem cell-enriched fat injection?
Stem cell-enriched fat injection provides much longer-lasting results than conventional fat injection. In this method, stem cells separated from the fat are mixed with the fat and applied to the area to be treated.
By accelerating tissue regeneration, stem cells rejuvenate the skin structure and reduce the amount of injected fat tissue that is resorbed. As a result, a more natural, vibrant and lasting appearance is achieved in the treated area.
| Conventional fat injection | Injection enriched with stem cells (SVF) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material applied | Prepared fat tissue | Fat tissue + SVF separated from the same tissue |
| Effect on the tissue | Mainly volume support | Support for tissue regeneration in addition to volume support |
| Absorption of the injected fat | According to research, approximately 70% of the fat may be absorbed over time | In the same research, this rate may fall to the 20–50% range |
| Repeat interval | Because part of the fat is resorbed, it can be repeated at intervals of at least 3 months | With isolated SVF treatment, at least 6 months are allowed before a repeat |
The values in the table are averages; which method is suitable and how the result develops varies according to the individual’s tissue structure and is determined at the consultation.
Which areas are most often treated with fat injection?
Fat injection is most commonly chosen for the face and breasts. On the face, areas that have lost volume, such as the cheekbones, chin, forehead and the area around the lips, are reshaped.
In the breast area, it is used to achieve a fuller and more aesthetic appearance. Its rejuvenating effect is also used in areas where signs of ageing are prominent, such as the backs of the hands.
The Scientific Basis of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSC)
Mesenchymal stem cells derived from fat tissue (ADSC’s) offer great potential in aesthetic and regenerative medicine. Containing four times more stem cells than bone marrow, fat tissue has become a frequently used source for treatments in this field.
When applied together with fat grafting, these cells not only provide volume support but also support skin regeneration, increased elasticity and a reduction in signs of ageing. The scientific basis of ADSCs has led modern aesthetic practice to shift towards stem cell-based treatments.
How are stem cells isolated from fat tissue?
Stem cell isolation is usually carried out by processing fat tissue harvested by liposuction with special procedures (a non-enzymatic method). In this process, after the fat tissue has been separated using the non-enzymatic method, a cell cocktail containing stem cells is obtained. This cell cocktail is called the stromal vascular fraction (SVF).
This method offers a personalised and biologically compatible treatment option.
The regenerative mechanism of action of SVF
SVF is a cellular preparation obtained from fat tissue that contains several different cell types. Through the cells it contains and the biological substances these cells secrete, it can support the tissues’ own repair and regeneration processes.
The regenerative effect of SVF works mainly through three mechanisms: supporting cellular regeneration, paracrine signalling and modulating the immune response.
Supporting cellular regeneration
SVF contains adipose-derived stem and stromal cells. These cells may contribute to cellular processes that support tissue repair in the area where they are applied.
By supporting fibroblast activity and collagen production in the skin, it may help strengthen the skin structure, increase elasticity and improve skin quality.
Paracrine signalling
One of the most important effects of SVF is that the cells it contains communicate with the surrounding tissues. By secreting various growth factors and biological signals, these cells support the regeneration and repair processes of the surrounding cells.
This effect may contribute to supporting the formation of new blood vessels, improving tissue nourishment, stimulating collagen production and strengthening the healing process.
Modulation of inflammation and the immune response
The cells within SVF may also help to balance the inflammatory response in the tissue. This property supports a healthier healing process and the creation of a suitable environment for the tissue to regenerate itself.
In short, the effect of SVF comes not only from the cells it contains but also from the communication these cells establish with the surrounding tissues. Thanks to this multifaceted effect, SVF is used in regenerative medicine to support tissue repair and skin quality.
This schematic diagram shows the following:
- (A) After subcutaneous fat tissue from the abdomen is removed by liposuction, fat grafting is performed.
- (B) The lipoaspirate separates into its components: oil (discarded) at the top, harvested adipose tissue in the middle and, at the bottom, a fluid layer consisting of blood, plasma and local anaesthetic (infranatant).
- (C) The components of adipose tissue and the main cellular contents of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) pellet can be used to enrich the fat graft. Processing this adipose tissue with a non-enzymatic method and centrifuging it allows the SVF pellet to be isolated.
The figure is adapted from the study by Shukla et al. (2015) under a CC-BY licence.
Aesthetic Treatments with Fat-Derived Stem Cells
Stem cells obtained from fat tissue have become regenerative solutions that offer natural, effective and long-lasting results in aesthetic treatments. These treatments provide rejuvenation not only at the surface of the skin but at the tissue level.
It has also been scientifically demonstrated that stem cells have regenerative effects on skin tissue. Aesthetic treatments with stem cells obtained from fat tissue are applied safely in many areas, from the face to the neck and from the hair to body contouring.
Facial rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction
Lines, volume loss and a dull appearance that develop on the face with age can be addressed with stem cell-assisted fat injections. The cells injected beneath the skin with this method increase collagen production and restore the skin’s elasticity.
Facial rejuvenation with stem cells obtained from fat tissue provides a more vibrant, smoother and more dynamic appearance. Effective results are achieved particularly in areas such as around the eyes, the cheeks, the nasolabial lines and the jawline.
Neck and décolletage rejuvenation
Because the skin there is thin, the neck and décolletage are among the areas where signs of ageing appear earliest. Wrinkles, sun spots and skin laxity in these areas can be treated with stem cell-assisted injections.
Stem cells obtained from fat tighten the skin tissue and give the area a healthy glow. After the treatment, skin tone becomes more even and fine lines are noticeably reduced.
Use for hair loss and hair strengthening
Thanks to the stimulating effect of stem cells on hair roots, successful results are achieved in people experiencing hair loss. Stem cells isolated from fat increase the activity of hair follicles and promote regrowth.
This method is effective in conditions such as male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and thinning hair in women. It also contributes to thicker hair strands and to the overall health of the scalp.
Advantages of Fat-Derived Stem Cell Treatments
Fat-derived stem cell treatments in aesthetics aim not only at beauty but also at healthy skin and tissue regeneration. Because these treatments are performed with the person’s own cells, they offer several advantages together.
Thanks to the natural structure of stem cells, healing progresses more quickly and safely. You can take a closer look at these advantages under the headings below.
Long-lasting and natural results
Stem cell-enriched fat injections provide much longer-lasting results than conventional filler methods. Most of the injected fat remains in the body for a long time and gradually integrates into the tissue.
This method also gives the skin a more natural appearance, because the material used comes entirely from the person themselves. Instead of an artificial filler effect, the skin feels healthily rejuvenated and revitalised.
Fast recovery with a minimally invasive method
Treatments with stem cells obtained from fat tissue are carried out with minimally invasive procedures that do not require open surgery. This allows patients to recover in a shorter time and return to their daily lives quickly.
After these procedures, which are usually performed under local anaesthesia, clear improvement is observed within a few days. Swelling and bruising are minimal and temporary.
Treatment with the person's own tissue
Because fat and stem cells obtained from the person's own body are used, the risk of allergic reaction or tissue rejection is low. This is a major advantage, especially for patients who are wary of synthetic fillers.
Thanks to their natural and biocompatible nature, the body readily accepts the injected cells. This increases the success of the treatment and patient satisfaction.
Activating the body’s natural healing process
ADSCs (adipose-derived stem cells) contribute to the remodelling of skin tissue by supporting the body’s natural repair and regeneration mechanisms. This effect aims to support not only the appearance of the skin but also the overall quality and healthy structure of the tissue.
After the treatment, collagen production and the formation of new blood vessels may be supported, and the skin tissue’s capacity for self-renewal may increase. As a result, it may help the skin achieve a more vibrant, smoother, more elastic and healthier appearance.
Who Is It Suitable For, and Who Is It Not Suitable For?
Skin rejuvenation with stem cells obtained from fat tissue is an ideal method for individuals seeking non-surgical or low-risk aesthetic solutions. People who are concerned about signs of ageing and who are experiencing a decline in skin tone and elasticity in particular benefit greatly from this treatment.
Besides skin rejuvenation, it is also suitable for individuals with problems such as hair loss, volume loss or skin pigmentation. The greatest advantage of the treatment is that it can be planned individually and offers natural results.
Suitable candidates for stem cell treatment from fat tissue
Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) treatments obtained from fat tissue are regenerative treatments that aim to support skin quality and tissue regeneration using the person’s own tissue. For this reason, they may be considered particularly for adults who have age-related changes in their skin, who wish to improve tissue quality and who are looking for a more natural approach to rejuvenation.
For the procedure, the person’s general health must be suitable and they must have a sufficient amount of fat tissue from which SVF can be obtained. Suitability should be assessed at a medical consultation, together with the person’s expectations and their skin and tissue characteristics.
Patient groups who may benefit from SVF treatments may include the following:
- People with reduced skin quality: It can be used to support tissue quality in people whose skin shows dullness, loss of elasticity, thinning or a generally tired appearance.
- People with fine wrinkles and signs of ageing: By supporting collagen production and tissue remodelling, it may contribute to reducing fine lines in particular and signs of ageing in the skin texture.
- People with skin changes caused by sun damage and environmental factors: It may be preferred to support regenerative processes in patients whose skin quality has deteriorated due to long-term sun exposure, smoking or environmental factors.
- People who want skin rejuvenation on the face, neck, décolletage or hands: SVF may be considered not only for the face but also for other areas showing signs of ageing, to support tissue quality.
- People looking for a more natural rejuvenation method: It may be a suitable option for people who, rather than adding volume with filler materials, want to make use of their own tissue’s biological capacity for regeneration.
- People looking for a regenerative approach that does not require surgery: In patients who do not have significant excess skin or advanced sagging but who want to improve skin quality, it can be used as a non-surgical method or as an adjunct to surgery.
- Selected patients who need support for the healing of wounds or scar tissue: Making use of SVF’s properties that support tissue repair, new blood vessel formation and intercellular communication, it may also be used for some scars and tissue quality problems. The suitability of such treatments should be assessed separately according to the characteristics of the existing problem.
- Patients for whom improving tissue quality together with fat injection is planned: In some cases, SVF can be used together with fat tissue and included in the treatment plan both to add volume and to support tissue quality in the treated area.
The most important point in SVF treatment is determining the indication that suits the patient’s needs. Where there is significant excess skin, advanced sagging or structural problems requiring surgical correction, SVF is not a substitute for surgery.
In addition, the treatment may not be suitable in cases of active infection, uncontrolled systemic diseases or certain health conditions that could make the procedure inadvisable. For this reason, a detailed medical assessment is required before the procedure.
The aim of SVF treatments is not to create an artificial change in the face or body, but to contribute to a healthier, more vibrant and higher-quality tissue structure by supporting the skin’s and tissue’s own capacity for regeneration.
Treatment Process and Stages of Recovery
Aesthetic treatments with fat-derived stem cells are planned individually for each patient and carried out in stages. A detailed consultation and assessment before the treatment are very important for the success of the treatment.
The treatment process includes fat harvesting, stem cell isolation and the injection. Recovery may vary depending on the treatment area, the person’s skin structure and the extent of the treatment.
Preparation before the procedure
Before the procedure, the patient’s general health is assessed and the areas from which fat will be harvested are determined. Avoiding smoking, alcohol and blood-thinning medication has a positive effect on the healing process.
During the consultation, expectations are clarified and the areas to be treated are planned in detail. Before the day of the procedure, preparation is completed with recommendations specific to the patient.
Duration of the operation and type of anaesthesia
Depending on the number of areas to be treated and the amount of fat to be injected, the procedure takes approximately 2 hours. Local anaesthesia is sufficient for small areas, while general anaesthesia may be preferred for more extensive treatments.
In some cases, patient comfort is increased with local anaesthesia supported by sedation. The anaesthesia method is determined according to the patient’s medical history and the details of the procedure.
Which areas is fat harvested from?
The fat removed by liposuction is usually obtained from areas such as the abdomen, hips or thighs. The excess fat in these areas is put to aesthetic use and returned to the body.
This provides both localised fat reduction and a natural filler material. In this way, two aesthetic benefits are achieved with a single procedure.
Meet Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ
Skin rejuvenation with fat-derived stem cells is an option that can be considered by those seeking both healthy and natural results. This treatment aims to renew the skin tissue and reduce volume loss in the face.
With many years of experience in aesthetic and plastic surgery, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Karadağ aims to bring out your natural beauty with her individualised approach. She offers a detailed consultation before treatment, a treatment plan created according to your personal needs and results-oriented solutions using modern techniques.
Clinic: Kadıköy, Bağdat Avenue, Istanbul
Phone: +90 505 764 34 43
Request an appointment »
When beauty is combined with naturalness, its effect is long-lasting. Take a step now to regain your skin’s youthfulness.
For other non-surgical procedures, see the non-surgical aesthetics page; for a suitability assessment, you can contact the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are injections with fat-derived stem cells painful?
Because local anaesthesia is usually used during the procedure, the patient does not feel any pain. After the treatment, there may be mild tenderness or aching in the area. This discomfort usually passes within a few days and can be controlled with simple painkillers. Patients go through a comfortable recovery after the procedure and can return to their daily lives.
How soon do the effects of the procedure become visible?
The first effects begin to be noticed within a few weeks of the treatment. An increase in skin radiance and an improvement in texture become particularly apparent. However, the full effect of the stem cells reaches its maximum level within 2–6 months as they become active in the tissue. Throughout this period, the skin structure improves day by day.
How many sessions does fat injection with stem cells require?
Many patients can achieve successful results with a single session. However, additional sessions may be recommended depending on the size of the area to be treated and the patient’s expectations. Isolated stem cell treatment (SVF) can be performed in a single session; if the patient wishes to repeat it, stem cell treatment can be performed again after at least 6 months have passed since the treatment. In patients who have had fat injection, repeat injections at intervals of at least 3 months are recommended, because part of the injected fat may be resorbed. Repeat injections can be performed if needed during follow-up visits under the doctor’s supervision. The treatment plan is tailored to each individual.
Can this procedure be combined with other aesthetic treatments?
Yes, fat injection with stem cells can be combined with treatments such as PRP, fillers or mesotherapy. These combinations make it possible to achieve more comprehensive and effective results. However, all treatments must be planned under specialist supervision. The interval between combined treatments and the methods used must be determined correctly.
Is stem cell-assisted fat injection permanent?
Stem cell-enriched fat injections are much longer-lasting than conventional injections, because stem cells support tissue regeneration beneath the skin and help the fat remain for a long time. According to research, around 70% of the fat in conventional fat injections is gradually absorbed by the body, whereas in stem cell-assisted injections this rate falls to 20–50%. This significantly increases longevity.
How long does it take to return to work or social life after treatment?
Most patients can return to their social lives 1 day after the procedure. If small areas were treated, this period may be even shorter. For patients treated over larger areas, a 1-week recovery period is recommended. During this time, rest and following the care instructions given by the doctor are important.