Facial Fat Transfer
Fat transfer may sound strange—after all, most people assume that removing fat is always the goal in plastic surgery. However, many areas of the body appear more youthful or beautiful when they are plumper, which includes parts of the face. In addition, the aging process means that fat is lost throughout the face, which Dr. Ditesheim can correct through purified fat injections.
This procedure is also known as autologous fat transfer, and is beneficial for those who wish to plump the skin, fill out the face, and create a more youthful look. It can also be used to define natural facial features.
Fat transfer injections in Charlotte can be used to:
- Improve balance or symmetry
- Restore volume to sunken or wrinkles areas in the cheeks, temples, or under eyes
- Enhance the lips, cheeks, or chin
- Fill out facial creases or deeper wrinkles
- Improve skeletal or excessively lean looking hands, breasts, or body
Benefits of Fat Transfer
Fat transfer uses your own natural tissue to reshape, define, or restore volume throughout the face or body. Some advantages of fat transfer compared to dermal filler products or surgeries include:
- No incisions or scars on the face
- Natural results which age naturally
- No risk of allergic reaction
- Smooth, soft, and natural-feeling results
- Can be easily paired with other facial surgeries
Who is a Candidate for Facial Fat Grafting?
Patients who feel their faces look hollow or gaunt are usually excellent candidates for fat injections. The procedure can also be paired with surgeries such as a facelift for complete facial rejuvenation. Those who have had previous surgeries for facial aging can also benefit from fat injections as a “touch up.” Younger patients can also choose fat grafting to the face paired with liposuction to refine or sculpt the face. This can help patients avoid or delay a facelift in the future.
How is a Fat Transfer Procedure Performed?
There are three basic steps to a fat transfer.
First, fat is removed from another area of the body such as the hips, buttocks, or abdomen using water-assisted liposuction.
Next, the fat is prepared for reinjection. Dr. Ditesheim utilizes the AquaShape liposuction technique, so there is no need to purify fat, meaning this step can be completed very quickly.
Finally, the fat is strategically injected to the face. This can be done to improve the facial contours, restore volume, fill wrinkles and creases, or augment the cheeks or lips. Some patients can also have fat transfer to areas such as the breasts or extremities.