Hand Rejuvenation Using Autologous Fat Grafting: A Systematic Review of Recommended Doses, Complications, and Patient Satisfaction.

INTRODUCTION

Hand rejuvenation addresses aging-related changes such as subcutaneous fat loss, skin degradation, and photodamage. Autologous fat transfer (AFT) has emerged as a promising treatment, offering durable volume augmentation and regenerative effects. This study aims to systematically review the evidence on the techniques, outcomes, and complications of AFT for hand rejuvenation.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, searching databases such as MEDLINE, SCOPUS, DOAJ, and PUBMED from inception to April 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies reporting on hand rejuvenation using fat grafting, including randomized clinical trials, observational studies, case reports, and case series. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed independently by multiple reviewers blindly.

RESULTS

Eleven studies published between 2001 and 2019 were included, comprising 303 patients with a strong female predominance. Study designs varied, with three randomized clinical trials, seven case series, and one prospective study. High satisfaction rates were consistently reported, with complications being generally infrequent and minor. Various fat grafting techniques were employed, with manual aspiration being the predominant fat harvesting method. Follow-up periods ranged from 5 to 38 months, facilitating thorough evaluation of treatment outcomes.

CONCLUSION

AFT for hand rejuvenation is effective and safe, offering high patient satisfaction and minimal complications. Long-term fat retention and regenerative effects of adipose-derived stem cells contribute to success. However, fat graft resorption may require multiple treatments. Future research should standardize assessment tools, volumetrically measure graft resorption, and conduct high-quality trials to optimize protocols.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.