Fat processing techniques used for gluteal fat augmentation

Abstract

Background: This chapter introduces the reader to fat processing techniques and reviews the current literature on this emerging treatment modality, showing the current clinical use of engineered fat graft in buttock augmentation, with description of innovative methods and future prospects. Methods: Eighteen papers on the use of different fat graft techniques in soft tissue defects and in buttock augmentation were reviewed. The experience of the author is reported. In particular, 19 patients aged 18-64 years affected by buttock soft tissue defects, treated with stromal vascular fraction-enhanced (e-SVF) autologous fat grafts, were analyzed. The patients in the control group (n = 10) were treated with centrifuged fat grafting injection according to Coleman's procedure. Results: The patients treated with e-SVF autologous fat grafts showed a 58% maintenance of the contour restoring and of three-dimensional volume after 1 year compared with the patients of the control group treated with centrifuged fat graft, who showed a 39% maintenance. Conclusion: As reported, the use of e-SVF mixed with fat grafting produced an improvement in maintenance of buttock volume in patients affected by buttock soft tissue defect.