Clinical Application of Stromal Vascular Fraction Gel in Correcting Tear Trough Deformities and Infraorbital Hollows in Asian Patients Using Dual-Plane Filling

Background: Tear-trough deformities and infraorbital hollows are common signs of aging in the periocular region and may contribute to a depressed, fatigued facial appearance. Various techniques, including filler injections, have been used to correct these depressions. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of stromal vascular fraction gel (SVF-gel) using a dual-plane injection technique to correct tear-trough deformities and infraorbital hollows. Methods: A total of 31 patients with grade I or II tear-trough deformities and infraorbital hollows, as classified by the Barton Scale, who presented to the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Guangdong Women and Children Hospital in China between May 2021 and March 2023, were included. SVF-gel was injected using a dual-plane technique into the deep supraperiosteal plane and superficial subcutaneous plane through a blunt-tip cannula to restore infraorbital volume and minimize the risk of vascular injury. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the Barton Scale, the Tear Trough Rating Scale (TTRS), and a patient satisfaction questionnaire. Results: Following treatment, most patients demonstrated varying degrees of improvement, with Barton Scale grades decreasing by 1 to 2 levels. TTRS scores were significantly reduced after treatment. Patients also reported high levels of satisfaction across all 6 items of the self-evaluation questionnaire. No serious treatment-related complications were observed. Conclusions: Dual-plane SVF-gel filling appears to be a simple, safe, and effective technique for correcting grade I or II tear trough deformities and infraorbital hollows, with favorable aesthetic outcomes and high patient satisfaction. Level of Evidence: Level IV—therapeutic study.