Significant damage and deformity can be caused by scars over large areas of the body. Such extensive scars are usually made by burns. RCCC is exploring a new surgical procedure involving transfer of fat from the patient in order to reduce damage caused by scarring. This fat transfer procedure has been performed on thousands of patients receiving ‘cosmetic’ surgery. However, these outpatient procedures were never given a serious scientific review.  This clinical trial will scientifically test the potential and limitations of fat tissue transfer to speed healing and re-shape existing scars. 

For more information and details on enrollment please visit the University of Virgina Health System page.

For the patient:

The purpose of this study is to use a procedure in which tissue (adipose or fat) taken from other parts of your body is transplanted into your wound to see if it will improve the quality and appearance of the scar from your wound. This procedure is called autologous fat transfer (AFT). If you have one or more displeasing scars on your body, or have a wound that is anticipated to heal with a displeasing scar then you may qualify for the study.

The study involves an outpatient surgery procedure that will include anesthesia that puts you to sleep. You will have 2 treatment sites identified for AFT in this study. Both treatment sites will be similar in size and location on your body. One of these sites will be treated using the AFT procedure the other will be treated using a fake procedure (placebo procedure). You will need to be seen in the clinic 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after your AFT procedure to assess the scar.