Work

Subject-Reported Satisfaction After Cell-Enriched Lipotransfer (CELT) for Lip Augmentation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lip augmentation is a highly demanded cosmetic procedure due to the association of full lips with youth, beauty, and sensuality. Among various techniques, autologous fat grafting, particularly with the cell-enriched lipotransfer (CELT) method, has emerged as a natural and long-lasting option. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which require regular touch-ups, CELT offers sustained volume retention and potentially higher patient satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess patient satisfaction following lip augmentation using the CELT technique and compare it with traditional fat preparation methods, such as sedimentation and filtration. The study also sought to evaluate the influence of other variables, including gender, age, and fat injection volume, on satisfaction outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: questionnaire, focusing on various lip-related aspects such as shape, fullness, and how well the lips suited the face. The study compared satisfaction outcomes between the CELT method and combined sedimentation/filtration techniques. Statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Pearson's correlation was performed to assess the influence of preparation method, injected volume, and patient demographics. RESULTS: The CELT method consistently produced higher satisfaction compared to sedimentation and filtration (p < 0.001 for all items). Patients treated with CELT reported greater improvements in the shape of the lips, fullness of the lower lip, and Cupid's bow. Gender and age were also significant factors, with males showing greater satisfaction in smile-related aspects, while females were more satisfied with the lip style. Older patients reported greater improvements in how well their lips suited their face, while higher injected volumes positively correlated with lip fullness and appearance. CONCLUSION: The CELT fat grafting technique significantly enhances patient satisfaction in lip augmentation compared to traditional fat preparation methods. CELT's higher fat retention and more natural results make it a superior option for lip augmentation. However, further studies incorporating objective volumetric measurements are needed to validate these findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: 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 .

Source: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

DOI: 10.1007/s00266-025-04875-z