What is autologous Fat Transfer?
With this procedure fat is removed from one area of the body such as the abdomen or the thigh areas and re-injected into another area of the body. In most cases the fat is used to restore volume loss to the face. As we age we begin to lose fat in our face particularly around the eyes, cheeks, temples, and mouth. This contributes to the deflated tired look we associate with aging. Fat transfer helps to restore the rounder fuller look of youth. Fat however, can also be transferred to other areas of the body to restore normal contours, for example after trauma or injury.
How does fat transfer work?
Similar to what occurs with liposuction, fat is removed (harvested) with small suction tubes. Extreme care is taken so these fat cells are not traumatized. In this way, the fat cells are more likely to survive when re-injected. A micro canula the size of a pencil lead is then used to transfer the fat to the desired site.
What is new in fat transfer?
Current fat transfer techniques involve harvesting small parcels of fat by using smaller and less traumatic suction tubes. Smaller fat parcels are more likely to survive when re-injected into the body. With this procedure the micro canulas which are used to re-inject the fat are also less traumatic to the fat calls and the facial tissue. In most cases patients experience very little bruising and discomfort.
Am I a candidate for fat transfer?
Anyone who has experienced volume loss in the face or other body areas as a result of aging or fat atrophy from other causes is a candidate. The transferred fat is more likely to survive as a permanent enhancement in healthy patients less than 65 years of age who do not smoke.
When will I see the results?
Results after fat transfer are immediate. However patients will usually experience some swelling which may take weeks to completely resolve. Some settling of the fat will also occur and the final result may not be evident for 3-4 months. At this time if more fullness is desired a second, minor fat transfer procedure may be recommended.
How long will the results last?
With the current technique of micro fat transfer it is expected that the majority of the re-injected fat will survive and create a permanent enhancement. Some fat however will not survive. Fat cell survival is dependant upon the fat cell receiving adequate blood supply in the new transplanted location. Fat survival is usually best in healthy patients who are less than 65 years of age and who do not smoke. During the initial procedure more than the needed amount of fat is usually injected to overfill the area expecting some of the initial correction will go away. Occasionally a second fat transfer procedure is necessary if more than the expected amount of fat does not survive.
What is the healing time?
Fat transfer can be done with patients either awake but sedated or with patients under a deeper twilight sleep. Patients experience very little discomfort after the procedure. Some minor bruising is to be expected and usually resolves within 5-7 days. Oral medication and bruise cream are often used to alleviate bruising. Temporary swelling of the face does occur. The amount of swelling is dependant upon how much fat is injected into the face. Most patients look quite normal and return to work within 7-10 days. Swelling, however, can persist for as long as 2 months. Steroid medication is often used after the surgery to decrease swelling.
How should I choose my surgeon?
Choosing the right surgical team is critical. Make sure your surgeon is board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and that the facility is fully accredited. The experience of seeking consultation for cosmetic facial surgery and undergoing surgery is a very intense and personal experience. The skill, compassion and a caring attitude of both your surgeon and the staff will make all the difference in the world. Take the time to become comfortable with the entire team that will help you along with your experience from beginning to end and make sure your specific goals and needs are understood.