Tissue Processing Considerations for Autologous Fat Grafting

The use of autologous fat has many benefits for the correction of contour differences. It is a plentiful, non-immunogenic, and easily manipulated substance. The purpose of fat transplantation for most indications is the correction of a contour defect with predictable and long-term volume maintenance. Manipulating harvested fat in particular ways may increase graft viability. There remains a need for standardized methodology related to adipose tissue harvest, refinement, preparation, and delivery. Several devices and systems currently exist that are designed to concentrate and wash fat after harvest, but the future is sure to bring additional strategies and improvements.