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Study Shows Red Light Therapy Can Enhance Fat Graft Survival by Improving Cell Health and Reducing Inflammation

Updated: Aug 17


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A recent study investigated whether red light therapy could improve the survival of fat grafts - a common procedure in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. The results were promising: applying red light before and after fat transfer significantly increased fat graft retention, improved cell viability, and reduced inflammation. This suggests that red light therapy may be a valuable tool for enhancing outcomes in fat grafting procedures.


Study Overview


  • Title: Photobiomodulation with Polychromatic Light (600–1200 nm) Improves Fat Graft Survival by Increasing Adipocyte Viability, Neovascularization, and Reducing Inflammation in a Rat Model


  • Quick Summary: This study examined the effects of red light therapy on fat graft survival in rats. Researchers divided the subjects into four groups, applying red light therapy at different times relative to the fat grafting procedure. They found that applying red light both before and after the procedure led to the best outcomes in terms of fat retention, cell health, and reduced inflammation.


  • Key Findings:

    • Red light therapy reduced fat accumulation by nearly 40% in enlarged fat cells.

    • Glucose uptake improved significantly, indicating better metabolic function.

    • The GLUT4 protein was restored, helping cells absorb glucose more effectively.

    • Treated cells looked and functioned more like healthy fat cells.


  • Study Details:

    • Light Used: 1064 nm near-infrared

    • Dose: 17.6 J/cm² applied once daily for 7 days

    • Fat increase from baseline:

      • Normal cells: ~13×

      • Enlarged (hypertrophic) cells: ~28×

      • Treated cells: ~16.6×

    • Glucose uptake increase:

      • Normal cells: 6.6×

      • Enlarged cells: 2×

      • Treated cells: significantly improved

    • GLUT4 protein (for glucose transport):

      • Down more than 50% in enlarged cells

      • Restored to near-normal levels with red light therapy

    • Year Published: 2022

    • Where Published: Lasers in Surgery and Medicine


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