What is facial fat transfer?
The facial fat transfer process is a wonderful way to combat the loss of facial volume that occurs with aging. It not only enhances areas of volume depletion but has the side benefit of contouring the donor areas. Fat transfer can be performed to augment not only the cheeks, temples, and lips, and also the tear troughs and jawline.
Volume loss is a normal part of facial aging and the newest trend in facial plastic surgery is replacing the volume rather than pulling the face tighter. Oftentimes, the best volume replacement option is to transfer your own abdominal fat to volumize areas of the face, giving a fresh and glowing appearance.
How is the procedure performed?
Fat transfer involves surgically removing fat from one area of the body such as the abdomen or thighs using vacuum assisted liposuction and then transplanting it to the face. Over time, some of the fat may be reabsorbed by the body, however, much of it will remain for a long time. There is minimal swelling and rarely any bruising. Most patients resume their regular activities shortly after the procedure.
Fat transfer procedures can be performed in an office-based facility or a hospital and are usually done with sedation, or when combined with a facelift—under general anesthesia. The fat transfer procedure can usually be completed in less than an hour and typically involves very little downtime though some redness, swelling and bruising may occur.