Cosmetic Dermatologist San Francisco – Facial Rejuvenation with Fat Grafting
Fat grafting is the process of removing excess fat from one part of a patient’s body by liposuction, processing the fat removed, and then selectively injecting it into other areas of the same patient’s body.
Fat grafting has been in use for years for facial reshaping and to replace sunken areas caused by aging, surgery, or wasting illness. Esthetically satisfying results can be obtained, and since the patient’s own body fat is used the risk of allergic reaction is minimized.
A newer application for fat grafting is for Facial Rejuvenation San Francisco. We are discovering that facial aging is more due to volume loss than skin sagging, and facial fat grafting or other volume replacement might be the only thing needed in some patients with early facial aging.
See your board certified plastic surgeon to discuss whether you are a candidate for fat grafting for facial rejuvenation.
How long will fat grafting results last?
Results can vary, depending upon several factors such as what area is being grafted and how it is placed. Fat grafting is a highly skilled procedure, requiring a surgeon with experience and knowledge to perform it successfully. The survival of the fat will depend upon those skills and will be the result of how the fat was harvested, how it was purified, and how and where it was injected. Specifically, a process called ‘micro fat grafting’, though labor intensive, is the best way to ensure that the highest percentage of grafted fat will take.
When done successfully, the injected fat grows a new blood supply and begins to receive the nourishment it needs to survive from your body. When this happens, results can and often are permanent. However there can be a percentage of fat that does not take and this is why touch-ups are sometimes necessary. It is important to discuss options in advance to determine the best course of action for your situation.
How long will swelling last if I get fat grafting to the cheek area?
Significant facial swelling can be seen for 1-2 weeks after your procedure. A complete resolution of all swelling should be apparent at 2-3 months. However true facial definition (such as in the thinner areas of the face) can take several months to completely reappear based on how long ago you had the grafting done, and how much fat was actually transplanted and survived.
It’s best to consult your surgeon with any concerns as they will know exactly how much fat they grafted and if and when you should be worried. Also, be sure the Cosmetic Dermatologist San Francisco you choose for procedures such as fat grafting is Board Certified, experienced and performs fat grafting procedures regularly.