Regen Fat Code: A Standardized Protocol for Facial Volumetry and Rejuvenation

Abstract

Abstract Background Facial aging is a degenerative process that impairs contour and angle prominence. Rejuvenation is based on tissue replacement, volumization of the atrophic areas, and improving flaccidity and cutaneous photoaging. Objectives The aim of this study was to apply structural fat grafting to manage volumetric deficits of the face, following a new systematic protocol called “Regen Fat Code” (RF Code) that was created to standardize structural lipotransfer methods. Methods This is a prospective clinical trial involving 80 healthy candidates for facial rejuvenation who were split into 2 groups. Group A underwent only structural lipotransfer; Group B underwent replacement of deep facial structures by face-lifting plus structural lipotransfer. Structural lipotransfer followed the protocol “RF Code” and 3 clinical tools were adopted for pre- and postoperative facial volumetric analysis. Results Total volume (mL) of lipotransfer in Groups A and B ranged between 1 and 20 mL (mean [standard deviation], 12 [5] mL), distributed to the different areas as follows: nasolabial fold, 3.32 [0.92] mL; superior lip, 2.0 [0.62] mL; inferior lip, 2.76 [0.71] mL; malar, 8.51 [5.25] mL; inferior eyelid, 1.2 [0.54] mL; and chin, 7.18 [1.99] mL. Areas with less mobility showed a lower absorption index than dynamic areas. Conclusions The development of the RF Code protocol demonstrated the potential of grouping many parameters based on the lipotransfer method used to volumize and regenerate atrophic areas of the face. The protocol is easy to apply, and allows different volumizing and regenerative effects to be proposed, according to the demands of each surgical area. Level of Evidence: 4