What is fat grafting?

Autologous fat grafting, or fat transfer is when you take fat from one area on your body and reinject it into another. 

What areas of the face can be treated?

The facial areas that can be improved with fat injections are areas that often appear with age. Smile lines, frown lines, marionette lines (running from the sides of the mouth down to chin), wrinkles and hollows in the face such as under the eyes and cheekbones. Lips that have lost volume may also be treated along with scars and depressions in the face (such as acne scars). 

How is this procedure done?

This procedure can be done under local anesthetic for smaller areas of fat transfer. Fat is taken from areas of your body that have excess reserves. This is usually your abdomen or thighs. A tiny incision is made where the fat will be removed (liposuction). A small cannula is inserted and the desired amount of fat is removed. The fat is purified, then reinjected into the desired area. You should AVOID the use of blood thinners such as Ibuprofen(Motrin and Advil), Aspirin, and Naprosyn for 2 weeks before the fat transfer procedure. There are no restrictions associated with allergies as we are using your own fat. 

Recovery and Results - What should I expect?

You may have some slight swelling and/or bruising at the donor site and at the target site on your face. Swelling can be expected to go away in a few days. Most patients return to normal daily activities within two to seven days. Antibiotics and mild pain medication may be prescribed to help with recovery. Avoid any vigorous physical activity for a couple weeks as you heal. Sutures will be removed in 7 to 10 days. Avoid sun exposure for a couple weeks. You can expect results that are immediately apparent or that will be clear after any swelling has receded. 

How many treatments do I need?

Fat transfer generally lasts much longer than other dermal fillers. It can last from several months to two years or more. The problem with fat transfer is the high rate of reabsorption. (30% over 2 years) While only one session is usually needed, you may need subsequent treatments to achieve/maintain the results you want. 

What are the risks?

The risks with fat transfer are: Infection, Hematoma and Seroma, Asymmetry, Reaction to the anesthetic. There is a higher risk in patients with poor circulation and if you are a smoker. We advise No Smoking a few weeks prior and post procedure. 

Preparing For Your Surgery

Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding. Please arrange for a responsible adult to take you and pick you up from your surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.