Systematic Review of Stem Cells in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery: Clinical Application in Anti-Aging Medicine

October 2025 in “ Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery ”

Huntal Napoleon, Putra Brillian Djohan, Evelyn Evelyn, Laveda Lypinsky, Stefani Luziani, Magistra C. Margaretha

adipose-derived stem cells mesenchymal stem cells stem cells hair restoration exosomes ADSCs MSCs

Studysummary This review reports significant advancements in plastic surgery using stem cell therapies for aesthetic and reconstructive applications, including grafting and wound healing, though it underscores the need for continued research to address regulatory, ethical, and standardization issues. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

This systematic review evaluates the clinical applications of stem cells, particularly adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery, with a focus on anti-aging medicine. Out of 5,117 studies, 22 met the inclusion criteria, highlighting the diverse applications of stem cells in grafting, facial rejuvenation, wound healing, soft tissue reconstruction, and hair restoration. Stem cells demonstrate regenerative properties that enhance tissue regeneration, reduce scarring, and improve graft survival. The review notes significant advancements in aesthetic and reconstructive outcomes, but emphasizes the need for ongoing research to address regulatory issues, ethical considerations, and the need for standardized treatment protocols. Despite promising results, many studies have small sample sizes and short follow-up periods, indicating a need for larger, long-term studies to validate these findings. Exosomes are highlighted as a potentially more cost-effective and scalable alternative to ADSC therapies.

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research A Single Intradermal Injection of Autologous Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Rejuvenates Aged Skin and Sharpens Double Eyelids

July 2023 in “Journal of personalized medicine”

This study reports that a single intradermal injection of autologous adipose-derived stem cells improved visible aging signs such as wrinkles and pore size on facial skin for over a year in eight patients, with in vitro data suggesting muscle involvement in the rejuvenation process.

Therapeutic Approach for Hair Growth and Regeneration Using Bioactive Formulation Containing Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Conditioned Medium

research Therapeutic Approach for Hair Growth and Regeneration Using Bioactive Formulation Containing Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Conditioned Medium

January 2023 in “Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications”

In this study, researchers assessed the efficacy of Trichosera® hair serum, containing mesenchymal stromal cells conditioned media, among 40 healthy Indian volunteers, finding significant improvements in hair growth rate, hair density, scalp condition, and reduction in hair fall without notable adverse effects.

research Cellular Therapy with Human Autologous Adipose-Derived Adult Cells of Stromal Vascular Fraction for Alopecia Areata

45 citations , May 2018 in “Stem Cell Research & Therapy”

In this study, patients receiving adipose-derived stromal vascular cell transplantation for alopecia areata experienced significant hair regeneration, increased growth, and improved hair quality after 3 and 6 months, indicating potential efficacy of this stem cell-based therapy for hair loss.

research Stem Cells in Skin Regeneration, Wound Healing, and Their Clinical Applications

232 citations , October 2015 in “International journal of molecular sciences”

This review discusses the role of epidermal and other adult stem cells in skin repair, focusing on their potential therapeutic applications for non-healing wounds and other skin disorders, but reports no new research results.