Today, aesthetic medicine focuses not only on external interventions but also on cellular therapies that aim to reverse the signs of aging by activating the body’s own repair mechanisms.
Stem cell treatments are a scientifically based renewal process that aims to reduce the biological age of the skin.
Key Mechanisms in Skin Rejuvenation with Stem Cells
At the heart of anti-aging treatments lies the revitalization of cells that maintain the structural integrity of the skin. This process is not merely a symptomatic improvement but a restoration at the cellular level.
What Are Fibroblasts? Their Critical Role in Collagen and Elastin Synthesis
Fibroblasts are key cells found in the dermis layer of the skin that produce its fundamental building blocks.
These cells are responsible for synthesizing collagen, which gives the skin its strength; elastin, which provides elasticity; and hyaluronic acid, which maintains moisture balance.
As we age, the efficiency of fibroblasts decreases and production slows down.
Physiology of Aging: Cell Loss and Connective Tissue Deformation
Skin aging begins biologically in the late 20s. Each year, we lose approximately 2% of our fibroblast cells. This loss leads to weakening of the “connective tissue mesh” that supports the skin, causing sagging and deep wrinkles. As cell loss increases, the skin’s ability to repair itself becomes insufficient against environmental factors (sun, air pollution).
Differences Between Alloblast and Autologous Stem Cell Treatments
There are two main methods used in clinical applications:
Autologous Treatment: This involves multiplying cells taken from the patient’s own tissue (behind the ear or fat).
Alloblast (New Generation): This involves the use of fibroblasts obtained from the foreskin of newborns, which have not yet been exposed to aging factors and have a high division capacity.
New Generation Rejuvenation Protocols: Fibroblasts, SVF, and Exosomes
Methods applied in modern clinics are customized according to the patient’s needs. The table below compares the basic characteristics of commonly used cellular therapy methods:
| Method | Source | Key Advantage | Average Result Duration |
| Fibrocell | Behind-the-Ear Tissue | The person’s own cells, 0% allergy risk | 3-6 Months |
| SVF (Fat-Derived) | Abdominal/Gluteal Fat | Volume increase and dense cell support | 1-2 months |
| Exosome | Extracellular Vesicles | Very fast healing, intensive growth factor | 2-4 weeks |
Fibroblast (Fibrocell) Culture with Ear Lobe Tissue Sample
In this method, a small 3-4 mm tissue biopsy is taken from the sun-untouched and undeformed area behind the ear.
Millions of young fibroblasts are produced over 4-6 weeks in GMP-compliant laboratories. Since the patient’s own cells are returned to them, there is no risk of tissue rejection or side effects.
Stem Cells (SVF) and Filling Effect Obtained from Adipose Tissue
Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) is the separation of the richest group of stem cells from adipose tissue through special processes.
This method is used specifically to restore volume loss in the face and improve tissue quality.
Unlike traditional fillers, the injected cells provide lasting vitality and increased vascularization in the treated area.
Exosome Technology: Rapid Repair Through Intercellular Communication
Exosomes are nano-sized vesicles secreted by stem cells to communicate with each other. Thanks to the dense growth factors and micro-RNAs they contain, they send a “repair” command to the existing cells in the tissue without the need for cell transplantation. It is preferred especially in cases where fast results are expected and inflammation must be kept low.
Keratinocyte Applications: Upper Skin and Scar Tissue Repair
Keratinocyte cells come into play when it is necessary to repair not only the middle layer of the skin (dermis) but also the uppermost layer (epidermis).
This application is used to improve the texture and color of the skin in the treatment of deep acne scars, burn scars, and non-healing wounds.
Important Advice from Prof. Dr. Erdinç Özek: “Cellular therapies are not a ‘magic wand’; they are a process of resetting the skin’s biological clock. For the most effective results, you must be sure of the laboratory quality of the application and ensure absolute protection from the sun for the first 48 hours after the procedure. Stem cell therapy increases the biological capacity of the tissue, so when combined with device-based systems such as lasers or gold needles, the success rate increases exponentially.”
Stem Cell Treatment Process and Application Stages
Success in cellular therapies is directly related to the technical precision of the application and the meticulousness of the laboratory stages. The process follows a multidisciplinary roadmap from the collection of biological material to its transfer to the target area.
Biopsy and GMP Standard Laboratory Production Stages
Treatment begins with a 3-4 mm tissue sample (punch biopsy) taken from behind the ear under sterile clinical conditions. The sample is transported to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certified laboratories, maintaining the cold chain. Here, the cells are biologically multiplied for 4-6 weeks, nourished by the patient’s own serum. This stage is the most critical process in preserving the viability and genetic stability of the cells.
Injection Methods: Face, Neck, Décolletage, and Hand Area
The multiplied young cells are transferred to the dermis layer of the skin using “mesotherapy” or “micro-injection” techniques.
Face: Focus is placed on the nasolabial folds, eye area, and forehead.
Neck and Décolleté: The goal is to increase skin elasticity and repair horizontal lines.
Hands: The subcutaneous tissue is thickened to reduce the appearance of veins.
Session Planning: Protocols Based on Age and Skin Condition
The standard approach is usually 3 sessions at 3-4 week intervals. However, in patients over 50 years of age or in cases of deep scar tissue, the number of sessions or cell density (dosage) should be revised by the physician according to the tissue response.
Combined Treatment Synergy and Clinical Advantages
Stem cells work by utilizing signals from their surroundings after being placed in the tissue. Therefore, controlled stimulation of the skin maximizes the success of the treatment.
Combination of Stem Cells with Gold Needle and Laser Applications
Gold Needle (Radiofrequency) or Fractional Laser procedures performed before cell injection open microchannels in the skin, allowing stem cells to spread more homogeneously into the tissue depth. This combination triggers collagen synthesis more powerfully than standalone procedures by establishing a “biological structural framework.”
Who Is It Suitable For? Acne Scars, Sagging, and Wrinkle Treatment
The treatment is suitable not only for signs of aging but also for all individuals experiencing deep acne scars, chickenpox marks, sun damage, and chronic skin fatigue. Starting at age 30 for “pro-aging” (managing aging) purposes is ideal for preserving the skin’s cellular reserve.
Post-Treatment Recovery Process and Return to Social Life
It is normal to experience mild swelling or redness in the treated areas for 12-24 hours after the procedure. Patients can usually return to their social lives the next day. During the first 48 hours, it is essential for cell health to avoid excessive heat (sauna, steam room) and direct sunlight while the cells are attaching to the tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cell Rejuvenation
The following technical comparison table is provided to help readers make informed decisions about treatment options:
| Feature | Stem Cells (Fibroblasts) | PRP | Classic Filler |
| Content | Live Cell Proliferation | Blood Platelets (Factor) | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Mechanism of Action | Tissue Repair and Regeneration | Stimulation of Existing Cells | Volume and Fullness |
| Durability | Long-Term (Years) | Short-Term (Months) | Temporary (6-12 Months) |
| Naturalness | 100% Natural/Cellular | 100% Natural/Serum-Based | Synthetic/Externally Sourced |
Treatment Duration and Expected Effectiveness
Since the injected cells are alive, they settle in the tissue and continue to function.
Initial effects, such as brightness and firmness, become noticeable within 1-2 months, while maximum results appear from the 6th month onwards.
The duration of effect can vary between 2-5 years on average, depending on the individual’s lifestyle.
Side Effect Profile and Safety: FDA and Ministry of Health Standards
There is no risk of allergy or rejection with autologous stem cells produced from the individual’s own tissue.
All methods used are compliant with protocols approved by the Turkish Ministry of Health and the FDA on an international platform.
Key Differences Between Stem Cell Fillers and PRP Methods
PRP is a cocktail of growth factors that send signals to repair tissue; stem cells are the “workers” that actually perform this repair.
Fillers only perform a mechanical filling of empty spaces, while stem cells biologically rejuvenate the skin.
Important Recommendations from Prof. Dr. Erdinç Özek
“Our patients usually want immediate results, but biological repair takes time. Being patient with cellular therapies is the key to achieving the most natural and lasting results in the long term. Healthy nutrition and sleep patterns after treatment directly affect the survival rate of the cells we transplant.”
Anonymized Clinical Observations (Case Examples)
Case A (42 years old, female): After 3 sessions of fibroblast application focused on the nasolabial area and around the eyes, a 40% increase in tissue elasticity and a noticeable reduction in fine lines were observed at 6 months.
Case B (35 years old, male): Stem cell therapy combined with laser treatment was applied for deep acne scars, resulting in tissue filling and color equalization in the scar depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should stem cell therapy be performed?
It can be performed at any age starting from the 30s to preserve cellular reserves.
How long does the procedure take?
Tissue collection takes 15 minutes, and the injection of cells multiplied in the laboratory takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
When does the effect of stem cell therapy begin?
The first effects are seen from the 2nd month onwards as the cells begin to produce collagen, with maximum results appearing in the 6th month.
Can someone else’s cells be used instead of my own?
Stem cells obtained from the foreskin of newborns using the Alloblast method can be used safely.
When can daily life resume after treatment?
The procedure is performed during the lunch break; the patient can resume their social life immediately after the procedure.
Is stem cell therapy painful?
Thanks to the local anesthetic creams used before the procedure, pain is minimal.
Are the results permanent?
The effects are long-lasting because cellular renewal is achieved; however, as the natural aging process continues, booster doses may be recommended every few years.
Appointments and Contact
Stem cell therapy is a medical procedure that must be customized according to each individual’s skin structure and biological needs. You can have a preliminary consultation with Prof. Dr. Erdinç Özek to learn all the details you are curious about regarding the application process, expected results, and your personalized treatment plan. You can also schedule an appointment at our clinic in Istanbul to have your cellular analysis performed.
Scientific References
Academic references regarding the clinical efficacy of stem cell therapies and fibroblast applications are listed below:
NCBI (PubMed) – Autologous Cultured Fibroblasts: A fundamental article examining the success of autologous cultured fibroblasts in treating facial wrinkles and scars. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22025114/
Journal of Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine: Detailed research on the role and molecular mechanisms of stem cells (SVF) derived from adipose tissue in skin regeneration. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5115131/
FDA Guidelines (CBER): Official regulations on the safety and laboratory standards (GMP) of cell and gene-based therapy products (HCT/Ps). https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/cellular-gene-therapy-products