Fat Transfer (Fat Injection)

Common Problems

Over time and with age, the collagen and elastin in the skin begin to break down. Wrinkles and creases appear. Volume in the face also diminishes which can lead to a hollow or gaunt appearance. These aging signs can be further exacerbated by sun exposure, weight fluctuations, heredity, and lifestyle choices like smoking.

Some Solutions

Fat transfer, also referred to as fat injection, is a procedure which uses the patient's own fat to restore volume to areas of the face for a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance. Fat is harvested from an area of excess on the body and then re-injected into areas of the face. Fat transfer can improve wrinkles and creases, fill some scars and other skin depressions, add volume to shallow facial contours, and plump the lips. The procedure is commonly used under the eyes, the tear troughs, the temples, the cheeks, the chin, the lips, the jaw line, the forehead, and the glabella.

How A Fat Transfer Is Done

After anesthesia is administered, fat is removed from the donor site. This is from an area of excess fat on the body, often the abdomen, thighs or buttocks. The fat is then prepared and re-injected into the recipient site. The treatment areas are sometimes overcorrected which can lead to a temporarily swollen or "over filled" appearance. The procedure can often be completed within one hour.

Keeping the Patient Comfortable

Local anesthesia is typically administered to the donor and recipient sites in order to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. If the patient wishes, sedation may be used as well.

The Immediate After-Effects

Some swelling, bruising and redness may be present at both the donor and recipient sites. If overcorrection was necessary, the face will have a temporarily swollen or overfilled appearance which can last for up to several weeks. Discomfort is generally minimal but can be treated with medication if necessary. The redness and bruising typically fade within a few days. Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities the same or next day unless a larger area was treated.

The Risks

Risks are associated with all surgical procedures and should be discussed in detail with your surgeon prior to your fat transfer procedure. Potential risks may include inadequate or over correction, fat re-absorption, anesthesia risks, infection, and asymmetry.

The Results to Expect

Most people are very happy with the results of their fat transfer procedure. The duration of results will vary, lasting anywhere from three months to three years or longer before the fat is absorbed by the body. When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Masri, the results are generally more long lasting.

For more information about having fat transfer in Dearborn, Michigan, contact Masri Clinic today.