As we age, our faces lose volume. While dermal fillers can restore volume, they are a temporary fix. A fat transfer from one part of the body to the face via injection offers more permanent results. The experienced Miami plastic surgeons of the Seduction Cosmetic Center discuss the process and its advantages.
Loss of Facial Volume
As we get older, gravity takes over. Sagging and loss of skin elasticity occur, along with the lessening of fat content which provides volume.
Adding volume back to the face takes years off the appearance. As noted, dermal fillers are a popular choice for adding volume and erasing lines and wrinkles, but their effects wear off.
In lieu of dermal fillers, most patients in good health are candidates for fat transfer for facial rejuvenation.
Fat Transfer
Also known as fat grafting, the fat transfer procedure consists of removing fat from the back or abdomen — or any area in which it is abundant — via liposuction. Each client chooses her own donor site. The fat is then treated so it becomes injectable, and the doctor injects it into the appropriate facial lines and wrinkles. The result is a more youthful and completely natural look.
Because it is your own fat, the chance of rejection is nil. Areas most often treated with fat transfer include the cheeks, where it adds volume, underneath the eyes, the folds between the lips and nose, and lines between the chin and the lips. Not only does fat grafting fill in these lines and wrinkles, it also rejuvenates skin overall, resulting in a healthy-looking, glowing complexion.
Are fat transfer procedures permanent?
Fat transfer procedures are permanent, meaning that if you have been receiving dermal fillers for volume, you no longer need those regular touch-up appointments. However, not all of the fat injected will stay put. Some of it may move elsewhere in the body, but that is harmless. After six months, the fat remaining, which is most of it, should be there to stay.
Facial Fat Transfer Recovery
Expect a little bruising and swelling after the injections. Pain is generally minimal, and most clients can handle any discomfort with the use of over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. It is wise to limit vigorous activity for a few days post-procedure. The bruising and swelling should subside within a week.
Contact Seduction Cosmetic Center
To learn more about fat transfer for building volume and its advantage over dermal fillers, schedule an in-office consultation with the trusted Miami plastic surgeons of the Seduction Cosmetic Center today.
