What is nano fat grafting, and how is it enhancing aesthetic results?
Is everything getting smaller? First, it was electronics, but now it's your favorite box of cereal. It feels like everything is shrinking. Cue the old adage – bigger isn't always better. In some situations, good things do come in small packages. Take, for example, nano fat grafting. This innovative procedure utilizes tiny fat molecules to pack a plastic surgery punch, offering patients natural results and a glowing complexion.
What is nano fat grafting, and even more importantly, what can it do to push the plastic surgery envelope?
What is nano fat grafting?
The use of nano fat grafting is an innovative technique that studies show may have regenerative and novel uses in plastic surgery.
"Nano fat grafting is a fascinating and evolving area in aesthetic surgery," said Lara Devgan, MD. "The process begins with harvesting a small amount of the patient's own adipose (fat) tissue, typically from the abdomen, flanks or thighs, through very gentle liposuction. The fat is then mechanically emulsified and filtered to remove fibrous tissue, oil and blood, creating a smooth, cell-rich suspension. This refined 'nano fat' contains stromal vascular fraction cells, which can contribute to regenerative effects and subtle volume enhancement."
According to Roy Kim, MD, more adipose tissue or fat is typically harvested from an individual than usual for nano fat grafting purposes. Once processed and filtered, the nano fat is exceptionally smooth and has a liquid-like consistency.
Kristy Hamilton, MD, loves nano fat. Why?
"Fat is a fantastic material for rejuvenation and contouring across the face, body and skin in general," said Dr. Hamilton.
What is nano fat grafting used for in plastic surgery?
These small nano fat molecules can measure less than 0.1 millimeters in diameter. Although tiny, these powerhouse molecules contain high concentrations of stem cells and other growth factors. The high concentration of stem cells in nano fat can help treat the look of fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage and acne scars by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Its regenerative properties can add bounce, subtle volume and glow.
"Human fat, particularly from the inner thigh, is full of the body's own stem cells and offers tissue quality improvement as well as plumping and support for skin structures," said Dr. Hamilton.
If a spot like the inner thigh is the best for harvesting fat to use in nano fat grating, then where are the ideal areas to inject this nano fat?
"Because nano fat particles are extremely fine, they are ideal for refined placement, particularly in delicate areas such as the tear troughs, perioral region (around the mouth), temples and fine rhytids (wrinkles)," said Dr. Devgan. "The goal is not to create significant projection but to improve skin quality, soften transitions and deliver a natural, refreshed appearance. In my experience, it works beautifully for patients who want subtle textural improvements and a less augmented look than traditional structural fat grafting."
Nano fat will not offer significant volume or support due to its finer consistency, but it does tend to give patients a subtle, more natural look and a radiant appearance to structures and skin.
"The nano fat does not give very much structural support," said Dr. Kim. "It is really meant to improve skin color and skin quality and give support in very tiny areas like the under eye."
Again, due to its more "liquid" texture, nano fat offers more precise and even distribution to the treatment area. Dr. Kim indicated that it is ideal for areas such as the undereye, cheeks, nasolabial folds and temples, and that nano fat grafting can help patients avoid lumps and bumps while making facial skin look and feel better.
Even better, this minimally invasive treatment can deliver results when used alone or combined with other treatments.
"I love placing it in the periorbital area (around the lower eyelids to the eyebrows), injecting it into the dermis of the skin itself and as an application to the surface of the skin after procedures like CO2 laser resurfacing or aggressive microneedling treatments," said Dr. Hamilton.
Good things really do come in small, even nano-sized packages. However, results can vary depending on the skill and experience of the practitioner. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help guide your nano fat journey and direct you to the procedures that can help you achieve a more youthful, radiant, and natural "you but better" appearance.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
