[Morphological analysis of biomaterials obtained through micronization of adipose tissue].

[OBJECTIVE] To compare morphology of three autologous fat tissue fractions (milli-, micro-, and nanofat) obtained through mechanical micronization.

[MATERIAL AND METHODS] Human adipose tissue harvested during aesthetic liposuction was fixed in glutaraldehyde and examined using light and transmission electron microscopy.

[RESULTS] Millifat preserved intact adipocytes, vascular structures, and extracellular matrix. Microfat showed partial tissue disintegration with increased number of vesicular elements. Nanofat is an amorphous emulsion devoid of cells but containing matrix and membrane fragments. Median particle sizes were 1.3 [0.8-1.7], 1.1 [0.8-1.4], and 0.4 [0.3-1.5] mm, respectively. There was a clear morphological gradient reflecting transition from preserved tissue to fragmented components. Micronization degree determines biological properties of the graft: millifat serves mainly as a volumetric filler, microfat combines volumetric and regenerative effects, nanofat demonstrates biomodulatory activity.

[CONCLUSION] These findings provide a morphological basis for standardized fat processing methods and development of automated devices for fat transferring. This is of practical significance in plastic and reconstructive surgery.