What is Facial Fat Transfer?
Facial fat transfer, also known as facial fat grafting, autologous fat transfer, fat injection, lipofilling, or facial fat injection, is the process in which your own adipose tissue (fat) is harvested by small volume liposuction and injected into areas of your face that lack volume or that you would like to enhance. One of the most common signs of aging is facial volume loss or descent, causing hollowing around the eyes, loss of cheek volume, sunken-in temples and an overall change in your face shape resulting in an aged, tired appearance.
A minimally invasive procedure, facial fat grafting is the longest lasting treatment and the most cost effective option for restoration of volume loss, rejuvenation and enhancement. Transferred fat that remains at the sites after 3 months of the procedure will be permanent. Ideal candidates are patients who are looking to replace loss of subcutaneous fat in the face due to aging or trauma, such as scarring.
Facial Fat Transfer Consultation in NYC
Dr. Albert is a top-rated board certified plastic surgeon performing facial fat transfer in NYC. Conveniently located in Manhattan, our practice specializes in facial fat grafting for New York City area clients as well as those traveling from out of state.
During your consultation for facial fat grafting at our NYC office, Dr. Albert will examine you and address your concerns while establishing your customized treatment plan for optimal results. You will discuss the areas of concern and what donor sites are most suitable for your fat transfer procedure.
Donor Site Liposuction and Facial Fat Injection Procedure
Unless you will be undergoing another procedure under general anesthesia, your facial fat transfer procedure can be performed using a local anesthesia alone. You can always opt for general anesthesia, however, being awake during your procedure allows for active participation on your part.
A thin cannula will be used to liposuction fat from the donor sites of your choice after which the fat is prepared for injection. After the procedure you will be able to drive home on your own, as local anesthetic avoids the usual post-op symptoms associated with general anesthesia. The recovery takes a few days, with some swelling and bruising. There may be soreness at the donor site.
Advantages of Facial Fat Grafting
- Restores volume loss on face and other areas of the body
- Minimizes skin creases, wrinkles, and fine lines
- Decrease the appearance of scarring from acne or other trauma
- Minimally invasive
- Minimal discomfort and short recovery
- No synthetic material, such as dermal fillers or implants
- Usually performed under local anesthesia, allowing for patient participation and minimizing costs
Possible Donor Sites for Facial Fat Transfer
- Arms
- Back
- Abdomen
- Flanks (love handles)
- Inner and outer thighs
- Knees
Where Can Fat Be Injected in the Face?
- Under eye / tear trough / orbital area / eye hollow
- Nasolabial folds
- Lips
- Laugh lines
- Corners of the mouth
- Temples
- Forehead
- Cheeks
- Chin
- Jawline for contouring
- Marionette lines
- Scars
- Acne pitting
- Hands
- Breasts
- Buttocks
- Cellulite dimples
Are the Results Permanent?
Generally, about 69% of the grafted fat cells will survive. Your final result will be present three months after your procedure. This procedure also offers the added benefit of skin and scar rejuvenation due to the positive effects of the stem cells present in the fat.
Explore your options for Facial Fat Transfer and Facial Fat Grafting in NYC by contacting Dr. Albert using the form below, or by phone at (212) 203-8623