What are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are cells that make up our body, capable of constantly renewing, dividing, and differentiating into other cells. Stem cells are the primary cells that form all tissues and organs in our body. They can repair tissues or organs and keep the system youthful and dynamic.
Stem cells can take different names based on their abilities, maturity levels, and the tissues they can form. These cells, which are not fully matured, have the ability to divide limitlessly and self-renew, and they can differentiate into various tissues and organs.Rich sources of stem cells include:
- Umbilical Cord
- Bone Marrow
- Fat Tissue
What is SVF (Stromal Vascular Fraction)?
SVF stands for Stromal Vascular Fraction, which is a fluid rich in stem cells obtained from fat tissue. Recent studies have shown that fat tissue contains 500 to 1000 times more stem cells compared to bone marrow.
How is SVF Obtained?
Stem cells can be obtained from embryos, fetuses, bone marrow, blood, and fat tissue in the human body. However, obtaining stem cells from embryos and fetuses is ethically possible only in some countries with special permission and for scientific research purposes. The exception is stem cells obtained from umbilical cord blood.
In routine medical treatments, the stem cells used are precursor cells that can only differentiate into specific tissue cells and are not embryonic stem cells. Recent studies have shown that connective tissue-derived cells obtained from fat tissue are highly effective in completing tissue deficiencies and rejuvenation.Adult stem cells are present in all tissues. These adult stem cells later differentiate into the cells of the tissue and are responsible for repairing tissue damage or loss that may occur due to injury, disease, or other reasons. This mechanism is responsible for wound healing. The process known as “aging” is a slow tissue loss over time, which unfortunately cannot stimulate adult stem cells, leading to sagging of the skin due to gravity.Previously, stem cells could only be obtained from bone marrow, which was a painful, difficult, and time-consuming procedure. In recent years, scientific advancements have made it possible to separate stem cells from fat tissue, which contains significantly higher quantities (500 times more) of stem cells compared to bone marrow. Technological developments now allow us to isolate stem cells from fat tissue efficiently.The main factor in skin aging is the loss of properties in elastin fibers and the reduction of collagen fibers. Aging causes a loss of elasticity in the skin, leading to skin sagging and wrinkles.
How is SVF Treatment Performed?
The procedure involves local anesthesia, and a small amount of fat is removed through liposuction from the area with local fat excess. The stem cells are isolated from the fat tissue using a special centrifugation process. The SVF enriched with stem cells is then applied to the desired areas through mesotherapy. SVF is a comfortable procedure performed in a clinical setting and takes approximately 30 minutes. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after the treatment.
GCell® is a specialized device designed for the natural anti-aging treatment by applying patients’ own tissues in a clinical setting. The preparation, homogenization, and activation of SVF suspension are completed within an average of 30 minutes. Since the fat tissue obtained during the SVF procedure is not sent outside the clinic, and the entire process is performed in front of the patient’s eyes within a short time, it is a highly reliable method.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for SVF Treatment?
As individuals age, especially from their 40s, sagging becomes more noticeable. Nowadays, minimal invasive methods have become very popular, and the desire for rejuvenation with minor touches has increased. The genetic differences in individuals, like environmental conditions, are significant factors in wear and tear, so a detailed evaluation is crucial in treatment planning. Based on the individual’s condition, the procedure to be performed is decided after the examination.
Stem cell (SVF) therapy can be applied solely with stem cells or in combination with fat tissue transfer.
In which areas can SVF treatment be applied?SVF is frequently applied to the face, neck, décolleté, back of the hands, body areas with scars, or any other region where youthfulness, vitality, and fullness are desired.Especially in individuals with thinning hair, SVF treatment is used to thicken and strengthen hair strands, revitalize the front hairline, and achieve a younger appearance.Additionally, it is a safe technique for renewing the tissue and improving acne scars, scars, and stretch marks.
What is the healing process after SVF treatment?Stem cell applications accelerate healing. Patients can return to their social life immediately after the procedure. Mild swelling or bruising may occur in the area where the fat was removed and the stem cells were injected, but these injection-related complaints quickly resolve.
When Can the Results of SVF Treatment Be Noticed?
The results are noticeable immediately, but the final outcome becomes evident after 6 months.
The skin rejuvenates within the age range of 5-10 years. SVF obtained from stem cell-enriched fat cells has both tissue repair and permanent characteristics.
How Long Does SVF Last?SVF is an anti-aging treatment that protects the face against aging for an average of 5 years. SVF rejuvenates the skin and delays future aging.
How Many Sessions are Required for SVF Treatment?
SVF treatment requires only one session.
Can SVF Treatment be Applied in the Summer?
Stem cell treatments are not dependent on sunlight and can be performed in all seasons.
How Often Can SVF Treatment Be Repeated?Since SVF takes about 6 months to show its full effect, it can be repeated as frequently as desired, with a minimum of 6 months between sessions.
Does an Individual’s Genetics and Lifestyle Affect SVF Treatment?
The time it takes for the effect of SVF treatment to be seen can be influenced by an individual’s smoking and alcohol consumption, stress levels, skin type and structure, age, dietary habits, genetic makeup, water consumption, and the constant presence of negative external factors in the work environment (such as UV rays).
Is There Any Pain or Discomfort During SVF Application?
Topical and local anesthesia is applied before the procedure, so there is no pain or discomfort experienced during SVF treatment.
Is SVF Treatment Possible Without Fat Tissue Transfer?
If there is no collapse in the target area due to fat loss, and volume enhancement is not desired, and only anti-aging is sought, it is best to apply only SVF. The collection and production of stem cells are similar, and the subsequent application is carried out as mesotherapy to the target area.
Are There Any Side Effects of SVF Treatment?
There are no serious side effects of SVF treatment other than mild swelling and bruising, and very rarely (if hygiene and care are not maintained) infection risk. Since only the patient’s own tissue is used in SVF, harmful side effects or allergies are not expected. To date, no cases of side effects or allergies have been observed in patients who underwent the treatment.
