Unfortunately, wrinkles are part of the aging process. They start to appear as the underlying collagen and elastin fibers break down and wear out. Facial wrinkles can also be caused by excessive squinting, frowning and smiling.
Two of the most frequently used methods for filling facial wrinkles and frown lines are Botox Cosmetic and Restylane. While injectible fillers can smooth out wrinkles, they arenÍt for everyone. Some patients are allergic to bovine collagen or may develop an allergic reaction over time.
What is Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer, also called autologous fat transplantation or micro-lipoinjection, plumps up facial features with the patientÍs own fat. This is a popular alternative to other wrinkle treatments noted above. Fat transfer to the face is a safe, natural, non-allergenic procedure designed to recontour your face. It can provide definition to your cheeks and chin and also be used to correct facial deformities. Since fat transfer uses your own fat cells, you can never have an allergic reaction, because itÍs from your own body.
Procedure:
We perform the fat transform treatment in our office on an outpatient basis. Both the area from which the fat is taken and the treatment site are anesthetized with a local anesthetic by our state-licensed aesthetician. Using a small needle attached to a syringe, fat is removed where your fat is most tightly packed, such as your abdomen or your buttocks. Your fat is then processed to remove excess fluids and reinjected using another needle, which is placed just under your skin beneath the wrinkle. This process may be repeated until the desired correction has been achieved.
Financing:
Great promotional deals are available through Care Credit Cosmetic Plan. Payments could be as low as $100 per month. Contact our office for more details!
What is fat transfer?
Fat transfer is a procedure in which fat is harvested through a small incision from either the neck or the abdomen and then injected into the desired area, such as facial wrinkles.
Who is the best candidate for fat transfer?
The best candidate for a fat transfer procedure is a physically healthy man or woman who has realistic expectations and is interested in improving the appearance of facial skin. It can be particularly beneficial for those seeking a natural alternative to collagen.
Are there any limitations to what fat transfer procedures can achieve?
Fat transfer is often not able to treat severe surface wrinkles, which are better treated with chemical peels, dermabrasion or laser treatments. In addition, a browlift or facelift can typically better treat deep folds in the face or brow caused by loose skin or overactive muscles. The results achieved with fat transfer are not permanent.
How long does the fat transfer procedure take?
Fat transfer procedures can typically be performed in under an hour.
Is fat transfer a painful procedure?
Fat transfer is associated with minimal discomfort.
What is the recovery like after fat transfer?
Fat transfer procedures typically involve minimal swelling and little or no bruising. There is very little downtime, if any, and patients can typically resume their normal activities right away. Patients can typically return to work and other normal activities shortly after the procedure. |
