Autologous collagen dispersion (Autologen) as a dermal filler: clinical observations and histologic findings.

[OBJECTIVE] To assess the histologic behavior and clinical efficacy of autologous collagen dispersion (Autologen) in augmenting human dermis.

[SUBJECTS] Adult patients of the Facial Plastic Surgery Clinic at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary who were undergoing facial aesthetic surgery with skin excision.

[METHODS] Five patients were injected intradermally with Autologen in one postauricular area and bovine cross-linked collagen (Zyplast) on the contralateral side. Patients were examined clinically for signs of infection, skin necrosis, or implant rejection/allergy 2, 4, and 12 weeks postinjection. Impressions and photographs of all implant sites were taken at all follow-up visits. Biopsy specimens of each implant were taken 4 and 12 weeks after injection and examined histologically for signs of integration, rejection, and resorption.

[RESULTS] All implants were well tolerated. No identifiable differences were noted in the clinical persistence of Zyplast vs Autologen. Histologically, there was more variability in the degree of fibroblast infiltration of Autologen vs Zyplast deposits.

[CONCLUSIONS] Our trial suggests that autologous collagen dispersion may represent a viable alternative to bovine collagen. Clinical persistence and histologic behavior of Autologen appear to be at least as favorable as those of Zyplast, and Autologen obviates the need for allergy testing and eliminates the possibility of disease transmission. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2000;2:48-52