Autologous Material

Materials used in autologous implants and injections are generally obtained during the course of other procedures that involve tissue excision. These include abdominoplasty, facelift, breast reduction, breast lift, etc. The tissue is sterile-packed and frozen until it is processed for use. In theory, because the materials used in autologous implants and injectables are from the patient’s own body, there should be no risk of rejection. In rare cases, however, problems arise. In addition, the patient’s body absorbs these natural fillers over time [8] (Table 6.1).

Table 6.1. Autologous fillers   Filler   Indications   Treatment   Complications and potential adverse reactions   Fat transfer       Fat transfer: Injected into the subcutaneous fat layer and/or muscle. Overcorrection is necessary   Prolonged edema, bruising, under-/ overcorrection,migration, clumping, irregularities, fat necrosis, and infection [10]   Fat autograft muscle injection (FAMI)       FAMI: The face requires anesthetizing with a series of nerve blocks. Tiny puncture wounds are made at the superior central forehead at the hairline, zygomatic arches, oral commissures, and lateral chin. Injections are made into the muscle and immediate surrounding planes.Monthly visits may be necessary as needed. The effect is permanent or long lasting [5]   Rare complications may include swelling, bruising, infection, scarring, and dyspigmentation [5]   Autologen-cultured human fibroblasts   Stimulates cutaneous collagen formation   Soft tissue defects should be overcorrected by at least 20–30%. Injections are more painful, and nerve blocks or local or topical anesthesia may be needed. A minimum of three injections are required over several weeks. Skin testing not required. Effect lasts 3–6 months [10]   No risk for disease transmis sion or allergic reaction because material is autologous [10]