Facial fat graft
Fat is an unmatched filling material and has impressive regenerative capacities, providing the best restoration of texture and skin quality… See more →
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Restoring Natural Harmony: A Subtle Transformation through Fat Grafting
Facial fat graft
Are you experiencing facial volume loss, deep wrinkles, skin texture issues?
Do you have facial scars?
Do you have skin areas affected by radiotherapy that concern you?
Facial fat grafting might be the solution you’re looking for. This procedure uses your own fat to restore volume, improve skin quality, and rejuvenate your appearance naturally.
Fat is an unmatched filling material with remarkable restorative properties. It provides excellent improvement in texture and skin quality due to its rich composition of beneficial cellular components and growth factors.
Facial fat grafting is an advanced technique that offers:
- Natural-looking volume restoration;
- Improved skin texture and quality;
- Effective management of facial scars;
- Enhanced healing for facial wounds;
- Reconstruction of facial volume deficits.
Advantages of facial fat grafting
- Readily available and compatible with your own body;
- Small amounts can be easily harvested, with the option for multiple treatments if needed;
- Provides natural-looking results for volume restoration and skin quality improvement;
- Offers benefits not easily achievable by synthetic fillers or other products.
Disadvantages and considerations
- Fat resorption is the main challenge, occurring during the first 3 months after surgery;
- Resorption rates vary by individual, typically ranging from 25% to 50%;
- Higher resorption rates may occur in mobile areas (e.g., lips, nasolabial folds) or scarred areas;
- A repeat procedure may be necessary after 6 months to achieve desired results.
Technique
The amount of fat needed for facial procedures is small, usually not exceeding more than 50 to 60cc. I usually prefer doing the fat graft under general anesthesia for the comfort of the patient. Also, it allows using fewer amounts of anesthetic solution in the donor area, with less disruption of fat cells.
In my practice, fat around the belly button is for me the primary source of fat. Thigh fat can also be an option.
Grafting technique
- It starts with very small incisions in the belly button, leaving almost invisible scars: this allows the cannula to access the fat tissue;
- A solution is injected and fat is aspirated with the cannula;
- The tissue goes through filtration and processing, with different methods according to the final desired effect;
- Small incisions are performed at the facial recipient area and fat is placed according to the final desired shape.
Recovery and results
- Recovery from fat extraction is typically fast and well-tolerated;
- Wear an elastic band around the donor area for 5 days post-procedure;
- Avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 weeks;
- Expect firm swelling in treated areas for 4-6 weeks, gradually softening to natural tissue;
- Bruising should subside within 4-6 weeks;
- Successfully grafted fat integrates with existing facial structures, aging naturally over time.
- Before surgery
- 3 years post-op
Frequently asked questions
What is facial fat grafting?
Facial fat grafting is a procedure that uses your own fat to restore volume, improve skin quality, and rejuvenate your facial appearance. It involves harvesting fat from one area of your body, processing it, and then injecting it into specific areas of your face.
Is facial fat grafting safe?
Facial fat grafting is generally considered safe. Since it uses your own fat, the risk of allergic reactions is minimal. However, like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks which your surgeon will discuss with you during consultation.
How long do the results of facial fat grafting last?
While some fat resorption occurs in the first few months, the remaining fat typically provides long-lasting results. Many patients enjoy the benefits for several years. However, the longevity can vary depending on factors such as your metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific areas treated.
Am I a good candidate for facial fat grafting?
Ideal candidates for facial fat grafting are individuals in good overall health who have areas of facial volume loss, deep wrinkles, or scarring they wish to address. You should also have realistic expectations about the outcomes. A consultation with our team can help determine if you’re a suitable candidate.
Will the facial fat grafting procedure leave scars?
The incisions made for both fat harvesting and grafting are very small and typically heal with minimal scarring. Most patients find that any resulting marks are barely noticeable once fully healed.
Can facial fat grafting be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, facial fat grafting is often combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelifts, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers. We can recommend the best combination of treatments to achieve your desired results.
How long is the recovery period after facial fat grafting?
Recovery time can vary, but most patients return to normal activities within 2-3 weeks. You may experience swelling and bruising for 4-6 weeks after the procedure. We will provide specific post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.
Are the results of facial fat grafting immediate?
You will see some immediate volume enhancement after the procedure. However, the final results become apparent after the initial swelling subsides and the transferred fat establishes a blood supply, typically within 3-4 months.
How does facial fat grafting compare to dermal fillers?
While both can add volume, facial fat grafting uses your own tissue for longer-lasting, more natural results. It can also improve skin quality in ways that fillers cannot. However, fat grafting is a surgical procedure, unlike dermal fillers which are injectable treatments.
What areas of the face can be treated with fat grafting?
Facial fat grafting can address various areas including cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, jawline, and even lips. It can be used to restore volume in areas affected by aging or improving the appearance of scars.
Advanced facial rejuvenation: fat grafting solutions
Ready to explore how facial fat grafting can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence? Schedule a consultation today to discuss your goals and determine if this innovative procedure is right for you. Our experienced team is committed to providing personalized care and natural-looking results that help you look and feel your best. Contact us now to take the first step towards a refreshed, rejuvenated you!
Advanced reading
For those interested in learning more about the science behind facial fat grafting, consider exploring the work of Dr. Sydney Coleman, a pioneering surgeon in this field. His publications offer valuable insights into the principles and debates surrounding this innovative technique.
Dr. Sydney Coleman is a world-renowned American surgeon, who described the foundations of the current concepts in fat graft. This free full text (link here), presents an overview on fat grafting, and this paper (link here – paid access) interviews Dr. Coleman and two other illustrious surgeons, on challenges and debates about lipografting.
