What is adipose tissue banking?

Adipose tissue banking is the process of collecting, processing, and cryopreserving your own body fat for potential future use in FDA-regulated clinical research, Expanded Access programs, or approved therapies. It is a preservation service, not a treatment.

Is adipose tissue banking FDA-approved?

Tissue banking as a preservation service is not a product requiring FDA approval. However, any future medical use of stored tissue must comply with FDA regulations at that time. Products derived from adipose tissue that undergo more than minimal manipulation typically require IND applications and a Biologics License Application before legal marketing.

SaveMyFat Knowledge Base

Clear, education-first answers on adipose tissue banking for patients and providers. SaveMyFat connects patients and providers with a compliant, U.S.-based tissue bank.

For Patients

Start here if you are deciding whether adipose tissue banking is right for you.

For Providers

For physicians and practices evaluating or offering adipose tissue banking.

Cost and Value

What adipose tissue banking costs, what the price covers, and how to weigh it.

The Process

How tissue is collected, processed, cryopreserved, and stored, step by step.

The Science and Glossary

Plain-language explanations of adipose-derived cells and the science behind them.

FDA and Regulation

How the FDA framework for human cells and tissues applies to adipose banking.

State Law

State-by-state disclosure and stem cell rules that affect patients and providers.

Clinical Trials and Access

How to find legitimate trials and understand expanded access and Right to Try.

Longevity and Timing

Why timing matters and how banking fits into longevity-focused planning.

Trust and Safety

How to tell a legitimate program from a questionable clinic.

Comparisons

How adipose-derived cells compare with other stem cell sources.

Important: SaveMyFat connects patients and providers with a U.S.-based tissue bank for adipose tissue banking. SaveMyFat does not collect, process, or store tissue itself, and it does not provide treatments or cures for any disease or medical condition. Most adipose-derived cell products that are more than minimally manipulated are regulated as biologics and are not FDA-approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Banking your tissue today does not guarantee eligibility, access, or clinical benefit from any future therapy or clinical trial. This page is educational and is not medical advice. Talk with your own licensed healthcare provider about any medical decision.

Ready to learn more?

How adipose tissue banking works or contact the SaveMyFat team.