Adipose-derived Stem Cells (ADSC): A short overview of its benefits and uses

What is adipose-derived stem cells?

            Stem cells use has been a complex subject since the late 1990s. However, in 2001, researchers (Zuk and colleagues) at the University of California, Los Angeles, identified and described the  multipotent stem cells  from liposuctioned fat tissue. They first named these stem cells as Processed Lipoaspirate Cells or LPA Cells. Since then, the term LPA Cells has evolved to Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC).

The potential benefits of ADSC are promising in the regenerative medicine because of several advantages:

  1. Ability to continue rapid reproduction after transplantation
  2. To release growth factors
  3. To induce neovascularization (natural formation of new blood vessels)

How is it done?

            The first step is the collection of the fat (around 50-100 mL, depending on the requirement of the laboratory). This can be collected in the body area that have been agreed by you with the surgeon. This collected fat will be processed under sterile conditions in the laboratory. It will take a few days to a couple of weeks for the stem cells to be ready. The quality of cell integration will depend on the intrinsic characteristics of the patient. Once ready for use, the laboratory will contact the clinic in order to proceed with the main treatment.

What is ADSC useful for?

  • Soft Tissue Augmentation Treatment

These stem cells have been safely and effectively used for augmentation of breasts, buttock as well as penis. Cells populations is expanded and the harvested cells will be transferred to the treatment area/s. On the day of the main treatment, the surgeon will perform a second fat tissue collection which will be mixed with the ADSC. This is then implanted in the area of concern.

  • Filler

ADSC is injected to the areas where facial wrinkles and folds are seen. This adds volume to the skin and may give the appearance of a smoother surface.

  • Mesotherapy

            ADSC Mesotherapy is done with the use of dermapen needles. This treatment solves the aging effect, to reduce light wrinkle and improve the skin texture.

  • Hair Loss

            According to recent studies, it has been found that using ADSC can stimulate hair growth.

Are there Risk and Side effects?

            Presently, there are no scientific and clinical evidence about the possible risks or side effects connected with the use and injection of ADSC.

            However, it is important to note that some risk and side effects mentioned by patients are due to the medical procedure. These may include but are not limited to swelling, bruising, pain or tenderness, lumps, discoloration. These will resolve in a few days but can last up to a few weeks.            

Here in Dubai, stem cell treatment is available in our London Centre for Aesthetic Surgery Gulf clinic located in Dubai Healthcare City.

Drs. Maurizio and Roberto Viel have over 25 years of experience in the field of cosmetic surgery industry, and are known for their expertise in most cosmetic treatments e.g. Botulinum Toxin Injections, dermal fillers, and mesotherapy.

To know more about adipose-derived stem cell treatment in Dubai, click here.