Facial Fat Grafting

What is Facial Fat Transfer? 

Facial fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or facial fat injection, is a cosmetic procedure that enhances facial fullness, smooths wrinkles, and restores a youthful appearance by transferring fat from one part of the body to the face. At Cultura Dermatology and Plastic Surgery in Washington, DC, Dr. Kelly Bolden, MD, FACS utilizes this technique to provide natural-looking results without synthetic fillers or implants.

The procedure involves harvesting fat using conventional liposuction techniques from an area of the body with excess fatty tissue. The harvested fat is decanted to separate the fat cells from other fluids. Using a fine needle, the harvested fat is re-injected back to the facial areas with volume loss to restore, contour and sculpt.

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Advantages of Facial Fat Transfer

  • Natural Enhancement

    Uses the patient's fat, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and achieving natural-feeling results.

  • Long-Lasting Results

    Offers more permanent results compared to synthetic fillers.

  • Improves Facial Contours

    Can restore volume to the cheeks, lips, and under-eyes.

  • Minimally Invasive

    Less invasive than a surgical facelift and offers a shorter recovery time.

Good Candidates for Facial Fat Transfer 

Ideal candidates for facial fat transfer are those looking to enhance facial volume and smoothness without synthetic implants or fillers. Candidates should have sufficient fat deposits in an area of the body, such as the stomach or thighs, and be in good overall health. 

What Does Facial Fat Transfer Treat?

Facial fat transfer treats areas where youthful fat begins to diminish with age. This typically includes areas such as:

  • Sunken cheeks or temples
  • Thin lips
  • Deep facial wrinkles and creases
  • Hollow under-eye areas

Facial fat transfer can easily be combined with procedures such as:

Fat transfer to breast and buttocks: Patients pursue large volume liposuction to add fat  to breast opting out of breast implants or fat transfer to buttocks for a Brazilian Butt Lift.  

Liposuction: Many patients pursue liposuction and opt to add facial fat transfer to their treatment package.

Facelift: Lift and rejuvenate skin at the same time as restoring youthful fat.

During a consultation, Dr. Bolden guides patients on how to prepare for facial fat transfer. This includes detailed guidelines on diet, smoking cessation, and avoiding certain medications that may affect the procedure's outcome. Dr. Bolden will thoroughly assess the donor sites and the facial areas to plan the procedure.

Recovery from facial fat transfer is generally mild, with some swelling and bruising expected in both the donor and recipient areas. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, though recovery times can vary based on the extent of the procedure.

The cost of facial fat transfer at Cultura Plastic Surgery varies depending on the amount of fat transferred and the complexity of the procedure. Dr. Bolden provides a complete cost estimate during consultations and offers financing options.

What to Expect From a Facial Fat Transfer Consultation 

During the consultation, Dr. Bolden thoroughly discusses the patient’s aesthetic goals, evaluates potential donor and recipient sites, and explains the procedure in detail. This session ensures that patients are well-informed about the benefits and details of the procedure and can make a confident decision to proceed.

What is facial fat grafting?

Fat Grafting is described by some as “liquid gold,” since it appears gold when harvested from the body, and is the patient’s own precious fat. The procedure is not limited only to the face, it has been applied to other parts of the body adding volume in breast and buttock augmentation procedures. Its application to facial rejuvenation is often called the most “natural” filler enhancing facial features including lips.

How long do the results of facial fat grafting last?

The results of facial fat grafting can be long-lasting, often persisting for several years. However, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body in the months following the procedure. Your Cultura surgeon will discuss expected outcomes and may recommend touch-up treatments if needed.

Is facial fat grafting suitable for all skin types?

Yes, facial fat grafting is generally suitable for all skin types and tones. Since the procedure uses your own fat, theres minimal risk of allergic reactions or rejection. During your consultation at Cultura, your surgeon will assess your individual needs and determine if youre a good candidate for the procedure.

What areas of the face can be treated with fat grafting?

Fat grafting can address various areas of the face, including cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, and lips. It can also be used to improve facial symmetry and contour. Your Cultura surgeon will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific concerns and desired outcomes.

How is the fat harvested for facial fat grafting?

The fat is typically harvested through a gentle liposuction technique from areas with excess fat, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. This process is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia. The harvested fat is then purified before being carefully injected into the targeted facial areas.

What is the recovery process like after facial fat grafting?

Recovery from facial fat grafting is generally quick, with most patients returning to normal activities within a week. You may experience some swelling and bruising in both the donor and recipient areas, which typically subsides within 1-2 weeks. Your Cultura surgeon will provide detailed post-procedure care instructions.

Can facial fat grafting be combined with other procedures?

Yes, facial fat grafting can be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures for more comprehensive results. At Cultura, its often performed alongside facelifts, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers or Botox. Your surgeon will recommend the best combination of treatments to achieve your goals.

How does facial fat grafting compare to dermal fillers?

While both procedures add volume to the face, fat grafting uses your own tissue for long-lasting, natural-looking results. Dermal fillers are temporary and may require more frequent touch-ups. During your consultation at Cultura, your provider will help you decide which option is best suited for your needs and preferences.

Are there any risks associated with facial fat grafting?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including asymmetry, under or over-correction, and the possibility that some transferred fat may not survive. However, these risks are minimized when the procedure is performed by experienced surgeons like those at Cultura. Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks during your consultation.

How soon will I see results from facial fat grafting?

Initial results are visible immediately after the procedure, but there will be some swelling. The final results typically become apparent after about 3-4 months when the swelling has fully subsided and the transferred fat has settled. Your Cultura surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and results.

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