Through a simple liposuction procedure, a quantity of subcutaneous fat can be removed under local or general anesthesia. The fat (microfat) is then filtered, breaking down the fat cells so that primarily the stem cells remain. These cells can be introduced into the skin, where they stimulate natural tissue repair (regeneration).
Nanofat can be administered in different ways in the body:
Nanofat Injection:
Using very fine needles, nanofat is injected into the superficial dermis. This can be done, for example, in the lower eyelids, as well as in scars, joints, tendons, and ligaments.
Nanofat Microneedling:
Microneedling uses an electrical device with 16 fine needles that move at high speed to create microchannels in the skin. This allows the nanofat to penetrate deep into the dermis, where it can work effectively. This technique is applied to larger areas, such as the entire face, neck, décolleté, upper arms, and hands. The advantage is that nanofat is applied evenly and quickly at the same depth, making it more efficient than injecting large areas. Nanofat microneedling is also used after laser or peeling treatments to accelerate recovery.
Nanofat Ointment:
After each microneedling session, an ointment made from the patient’s own nanofat is provided for daily use during the first week. Its effects are particularly strong in the first two days, as the permeability of the skin is increased due to the microneedling process.
Nanofat as an Injection Fluid:
In procedures like facelift surgery, nanofat is also added to the local injection fluid to promote healing, reduce swelling, improve blood circulation, and lower surgical stress.
Nanofat Spray:
This technique, developed by Drs. Tonnard & Verpaele, is used to reduce scar formation, for example, by spraying nanofat under the skin flap during a facelift.
Effectiveness and Benefits of Nanofat:
Research in various centers shows that nanofat possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, anti-apoptotic, immune-modulating, and pigment-regulating properties. It remodels the extracellular matrix and stimulates angiogenesis (formation of blood vessels), improving blood circulation and healing. Additionally, it thickens the skin slightly, which can help reduce dark circles under the eyes, caused by the underlying muscles becoming translucent.
Nanofat is particularly effective in improving skin pigmentation, reducing skin thinning, and fine wrinkles.
The full effect of nanofat is typically visible after 6 to 9 months and generally lasts 3 to 5 years, after which a repeat treatment may be necessary. To bridge the recovery period in the first months, nanofat is sometimes combined with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and botulinum toxin, creating a “skin boost” that becomes visible within a few weeks and lasts 4 to 6 months before the full regenerative effect of nanofat kicks in.
Nanofat is part of the new generation of regenerative medicine, harnessing the body's natural healing power.