As an alternative to a facelift or other surgical procedures to recapture a more youthful appearance to the face, many people are opting for a fat transfer procedure. This is a process whereby fat is taken from another area of the body to fill in areas of the face that may have lost volume over the years. Dr. Saigal’s patient-focused practice in Orlando, FL can provide a consultation so that you can discuss what effects you want to achieve, and determine whether or not the procedure is right for you. There are various techniques, and your surgeon will be able to answer any questions about them you may have.
The Procedure
A local anesthetic is used to numb areas to be treated. Only mature fat cells are injected into the face that have been harvested from the stomach, inner thigh or buttocks where fat is prevalent. The area where the fat is extracted for different patients is not always the same since some people have more fat accumulation in certain areas of their bodies. The fat is injected in very tiny amounts to the facial area or areas being treated. It is then introduced to existing fatty tissue to absorb the nutrients necessary to establish blood supply within the system for the graft to be successful.
Possible Side-Effects
Because it is expected that not all of the fat cells will meld with the existing cells, there is a possibility of over-filling the treated area to compensate, making sure the procedure is successful. This can result in temporary swelling for an extended period of time, up to about two weeks. Some bruising can also be expected. Both bruising and swelling usually peak after three days and then begin to subside.
After-Care
Use of ice packs to treated areas in the first three days is recommended. Sleeping with a couple of pillows under your head during this time to keep the face elevated is a good idea. Remember that the inner process that you are not seeing for the graft to start thriving in its new area is responsible for the temporary, visible changes such as bruising and swelling. This should keep your mind at ease so that you can enjoy some rest and relaxation which will also help in the healing process.
Some facial problems corrected and improved include:
- Smoothing wrinkles
- Laugh lines
- Crow’s feet
- Acne Scars
- Add definition to chin and jawline
- Fuller lips
The fat transfer procedure can allow for much more natural looking results than plastic surgery where the face is pulled and tightened. It’s one of the reasons so many people are choosing it over other options. Contact our office for more information on this procedure.