Fat grafting or Fat injections is a procedure that is very common in plastic surgery has become one of the most important adjuncts to many procedures that are performed. With aging, we all develops sagging and some “deflation” in our faces due to losing fat (as well as bone). Fat grafting is a simple procedure that involves taking fat from one part of the body (usually the hip) and purifying the fat and then re-injecting it into the face. The areas of the face that are most common for fat injections are the lips, the nasolabial folds (smile lines), the corners of the mouth, and even under the eyes, and chin. There are some recent studies that suggest that there are beneficial effects of fat injections that improve the appearance of the area beyond just the contour improvement which may be due to the stem cell effects present in fat cells. While 30-40% of the harvest will not “take” when it is reinjected, the remaining fat cells take root in their new location and take up a blood supply and become a permanent “filler” in that particular area. It is common to have to do multiple sessions to achieve contour improvements and does not have the exactness and predictability of some fillers.
All patients undergoing facelift/necklift have some component of fat injections done concurrently to further enhance and improve their results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fat grafting?
Fat grafting, also called fat transfer, moves your own fat from an area such as the abdomen or thighs to another area that needs volume. The fat is collected by gentle liposuction, purified, and injected into areas such as the face, hands, breasts or depressed scars.
How long do fat grafting results last?
Part of the transferred fat is naturally absorbed in the first few months. The fat that survives after about three to six months is generally long-lasting and ages with the body. Some people need a second session to reach the desired volume.
Is fat grafting safe?
Because it uses your own tissue, there is no risk of allergy or rejection. Possible risks include swelling, bruising, small lumps or oil cysts, infection and uneven results. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon.
What is the recovery time after fat grafting?
Swelling and bruising at both the donor and treated areas usually settle within one to two weeks. Many people return to desk work within a week. The final shape is visible after about three to six months.
What is the difference between fat grafting and fillers?
Fillers are injected gels that need no surgery but last months and must be repeated. Fat grafting uses your own tissue, can give long-lasting results and also slims the donor area, but involves minor liposuction and more downtime.
Who is a good candidate for fat grafting?
Healthy adults with a stable weight, enough spare fat at a donor site and realistic expectations are usually good candidates. Smoking reduces fat survival, so stopping before and after the procedure is strongly advised.
