Fat Transfer
The gradual development of facial wrinkles, whether fine surface lines or deeper creases and folds, is the classic early sign of accumulated skin damage and inevitable ageing. Premature ageing and wrinkling of the skin may be accelerated by excessive exposure to the sun and other elements, overacting facial expression muscles, smoking, poor nutrition and skin disorders.
What is fat transfer?
Autologous fat transfer or fat grafting can correct or eliminate wrinkles and restore facial contours using your own fat. It is a highly popular alternative treatment for facial rejuvenation and wrinkle correction.
The treatment involves harvesting fat cells from the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or other areas of the body and reinjecting them (by injection) beneath the skin. Fat is commonly used to treat wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, nasolabial folds, to correct depressions and scars, to enhance areas such as the cheekbones and chin, and in general to restore lost facial volume, as well as to improve the appearance of the backs of the hands.
How is fat transfer performed?
Both the donor and recipient areas are disinfected with antiseptic and local anesthesia is injected. Fat cells are then harvested using a small syringe and a special, extremely fine cannula. The fat undergoes special processing for purification and is then reinjected into the desired area using a small syringe and a fine atraumatic needle. A slight overcorrection is usually performed, as the survival of the transplanted fat depends on many factors and may range from 30–80%. Therefore, more than one treatment may be required to achieve the desired result.
What should I expect after surgery?
If the transfer involves a relatively large area, you may need to limit your activities for a few days; however, most patients return immediately to their normal routine. Swelling and bruising are common both at the donor site and the treated area. Bruising usually subsides within 3–5 days and can be covered with make-up during this time, while swelling resolves completely within 2–3 weeks.
What are the advantages of fat transfer?
Fat transfer is a technique that is becoming increasingly popular. Since the fat comes from your own body, there is no risk of allergic reaction and the treatment is completely safe. The percentage of fat that survives varies, which is why more than one session may be needed to achieve the desired result; however, the fat that remains provides a completely natural result and can last for many years. Pain associated with the treatment is minimal and managed with simple analgesics, and downtime from work and social activities is very limited.
To book an appointment, please contact us.
