Using Fat Cells to Volumize Areas of the Face
Have you looked in a mirror and wondered why your face looks older than it is? It’s probably because of the fatty tissues in your face thinning out. As we get older, the facial fat layer begins thinning out, which results in a sunken and gaunt appearance.
Thankfully, modern cosmetic medicine is able to work wonders on our bodies so that they can look younger for longer. In order to restore youthful volume to our faces, we can undergo a procedure known as a facial fat transfer.
The Facial Fat Transfer
A facial fat transfer, or autologous fat-grafting treatment, refers to a procedure where excess fat cells are taken from an area of the body and transferred into regions of the face via injections. This is why the term “autologous” is used – it means “taken from one’s own body.”
After being taken out of the body, the fat cells are then purified and injected into areas of the face that look sunken, such as the chin, undereye areas, and cheeks. This results in volume and contours being added to those areas, giving the patient a more youthful look. Wrinkles and folds can also be filled using this treatment.
What’s Involved in Facial Fat Transfer?
Facial fat transfer involves three important steps:
- Liposuction – The first step is suctioning out excess fat from parts of the body such as the thighs, arms, buttocks, or abdomen. This harvesting process must be done with care in order to preserve the health of the fat cells.
- Purification – In this step, the harvested fat cells are cleaned. Any excess fluid remaining is filtered out, which leaves healthy fat cells that will thrive in their new locations. This allows for longer-lasting results.
- Injection – The final step of the procedure is where the cells are transferred. In this step, fat cells are carefully and evenly injected into the targeted areas of your face. Many people call this step fat-cell transplantation.
What Happens During Recovery?
Temporary mild sweating and discomfort are normal after the procedure. Many plastic surgeons encourage not putting stress on the injected areas for three weeks after the surgery. They advise this because it takes this much time for the cells around the fat grafts to become strong enough so that they can handle minor stresses.
After close to four days, the blood vessels will have connected with the fat grafts. Following this, it takes two to three days for the blood vessels to become strong and reliable again.
In order to help avoid pressure, many plastic surgeons strongly suggest sleeping on your back with a high pillow for the first week. In addition to this, they recommend washing your face gently.
Restore Facial Volume with a Fat Transfer
If you’re curious about learning more about the facial fat transfer, consider scheduling an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Mitchell Kaye, a well-regarded surgeon with years of experience. He will be able to alleviate any fears you might have and can explain the procedure in greater detail.
