Hip pain and degeneration affect millions worldwide, often limiting mobility and quality of life. While platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has gained recognition for its regenerative potential, innovative options are emerging that may provide even greater benefits. One such breakthrough is Lipogems®, an orthobiologic treatment harnessing the body’s own fat tissue. This post explores how Lipogems is transforming hip joint care.
Lipogems: A Breakthrough in Fat-Derived Regenerative Medicine
Lipogems therapy uses microfragmented autologous fat tissue harvested through a minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia. The fat is processed in a proprietary device that gently washes and emulsifies the tissue, preserving reparative cells. These cells have powerful anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects when injected into damaged or arthritic joints.
Lipogems Injection Procedure: Step-by-Step Healing Power
The procedure generally takes less than an hour:
- Local anesthetic solution is injected to numb the donor site (commonly the abdomen, flank, or thigh).
- A small cannula harvests adipose tissue via gentle suction.
- The fat is loaded into the Lipogems device, where stainless steel beads microfragment and wash away oil, blood, and debris. This activates reparative pericytes into specialized cells.
- The processed tissue, now smooth and injectable, is drawn into syringes.
- Under ultrasound or image guidance, Lipogems is precisely injected into the affected hip joint.
Patients typically experience reduced pain and improved mobility within weeks, with minimal downtime.
Lipogems vs PRP: Unlocking the Power of Fat-Derived Stem Cells
Unlike PRP, which uses concentrated platelets from blood, Lipogems provides a richer cellular environment containing specialized cells that can differentiate into cartilage, bone, and connective tissue. Clinical follow-ups reveal patients usually notice pain relief and improved joint function sooner and with longer-lasting effects after Lipogems compared to PRP alone.
Benefits of Lipogems® for Hip Joint Health
Patients receiving Lipogems® injections often report:
- Reduced pain and inflammation in the hip joint
- Improved mobility and function for daily activities
- Long-lasting results compared to steroid injections
- A minimally invasive alternative that may delay hip replacement
Who May Benefit from Lipogems®?
Lipogems® may be especially beneficial for individuals who:
- Have chronic hip pain due to arthritis or cartilage damage
- Are not ready or eligible for hip replacement surgery
- Have not responded well to steroid or hyaluronic acid injections
- Want a natural, regenerative option for joint health
A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can help determine if Lipogems® is the right choice.
The Future of Hip Joint Regeneration
Orthobiologic treatments are evolving rapidly, moving beyond PRP into therapies that utilize the body’s own regenerative capacity in more powerful ways. Lipogems® is at the forefront of this movement, offering hope to patients who seek alternatives to surgery for hip pain relief. To learn more about advanced, minimally invasive treatment options, contact the American Hip Institute and schedule a consultation today.
AUTHOR: Megan Flynn, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, with a focus on soft tissue injuries of the knee, shoulder, and elbow. She has extensive experience caring for athletes at all levels—from professionals to weekend warriors. Known for her advanced training, compassionate care, and dedication to education, Dr. Flynn is committed to helping patients recover and thrive while also mentoring the next generation of physicians.