A retrospective study of stromal vascular fraction gel and microfat grafting for nasolabial fold rejuvenation (A comparative clinical study)

Background and objective: The technique of fat grafting can affect the clinical outcomes and aesthetic potential. Micro-fat grafting consists of harvesting fat tissue by using a multi-perforated cannula with 1 mm hole. SR Coleman refined fat tissue that is transferred through a micro-cannula. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) gel is a novel and mechanically processed fat product with high concentrations of adipose tissue which is derived from stem and other SVF cells. The objective of this study is to investigate and compare the aesthetic potential of microfat and extracellular matrix/stromal vascular fraction gel (SVF-gel) in nasolabial fold [NLF] rejuvenation. Methods: This is a retrospective study included 20 patients who had both microfat injection and SVF gel grafting for various indications between 3 March 2021 to 27 July 2022 in Rizgary Teaching Hospital and private clinic in Erbil city. Surgeon’s cost, patient’s satisfaction, age, sex, smoking, pain and donor site appearance were evaluated. Microfat was harvested by with multiple 0.8 mm holes smooth side cannula, and processed with a fat stirrer to remove fibers. SVF-gel was prepared according to previously reported mechanical preparation method. Results: All patients showed improvements in nasolabial fold rejuvenation and augmentation. The result showed that 57.1 of patients were satisfied with their SVF-gel grafting outcomes, while 52.9 of patients were satisfied with microfat grafting, and 10.9 of patients had mild postoperative bruise and pain. In comparison of patients and surgeon-rated satisfactions for SVF and microfat grafting the result was very close 52.9 and 51.8 respectively. SVF-gel and microfat showed effective nasolabial fold rejuvenation effects. Conclusion: Stromal vascular fraction gel is effective for nasolabial fold rejuvenation, and looks to be superior to microfat injection for improvement of nasolabial fold skin quality.