Will Stem Cell Fat Grafting Help Rejuvenate My Facial Skin?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Unfortunately almost two years ago  I incurred damage similar to that of laser but from retinoids. Then my cat scratched me to make matters worse. Since then I’ve been exploring avenues to repair my compromised deflated skin. I’m looking to do full stem cell face fat grafting, face lift, brow lift and PRP treatments. I’m hoping you can help me get my life back. Thanks for your time. 

A:Thank you for your inquiry. For facial skin rejuvenation/restoration there are a variety of agents that can be mixed in with fat injections including PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and Bioburst rejuv which theoretically may work synergistically with the cells in the fat graft for a stimulatory effect on the skin including the stem cells that naturally reside within the fat graft. Processes stem cells, however, are illegal in the U.S. and are forbidden to use by the FDA. So any so called ‘stem cell’ procedures in plastic surgery really means injectable fat grafting. Otherwise these are marketing terms for procedures which are either approved for clinical use or don’t really represent stem cells at all.

I would need to see some pictures of your face to determine if you might be a candidate for this type of therapy.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana