Do you want to rejuvenate your face but have some concerns about going under the knife or taking time off to recover? Facial fat transfer is a safe, natural way to look more youthful and refreshed. Wrinkles aside, this innovative procedure is all about restoring volume to aging areas of the face—specifically the gaunt or hollow areas under your eyes, cheeks that have become flat-looking, and a jawline that has lost its definition.
Are you ready to learn more? Let’s take a deep dive into facial fat transfer, including who’s a good candidate for this procedure, what recovery is like, how long results last, and how to find the best facial fat transfer surgeons in Florida.
What Happens During Facial Fat Transfer?
During this outpatient procedure, we use liposuction to harvest unwanted fat from one part of the body (usually the abdomen or thighs). We then transfer the prepared fat cells to areas of the face that need more volume—typically the cheeks, under the eyes, eyelids, lips, eyebrows, or nasolabial folds. You can learn more about liposuction in this related blog post.
We use ultrasound to guide our fat injections so we can safely and precisely target the volume-deprived areas of your face. The procedure is considered much safer with ultrasound guidance. Many people feel facial fat transfer is a more natural option because we repurpose your own fat rather than injecting you with synthetic dermal fillers.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Facial Fat Transfer?
Fat grafting may be the right choice for you if you want to restore your youthful appearance using your surplus fat. Ideal candidates for a facial fat transfer procedure typically have the following:
- Sufficient excess fat to transfer
- A desire to correct sunken and creased areas of the face
- A need to fill deep scars or correct crepe-like skin
- Already tried fillers but prefer a long-term or more natural solution
- A good understanding and realistic expectations about the procedure and results
- A clean bill of health before undergoing the procedure
People who are considering facelift surgery may also be good candidates for supplemental facial fat grafting. When combined, facelift surgery tightens and smooths facial tissue and fat grafting adds youthful-looking volume to sunken areas of the face. You can see how beautifully fat grafting enhances a facelift in our patient photos below:
What Is Facial Fat Transfer Recovery Like?
The recovery time following a facial fat transfer procedure is generally a few weeks. It is normal to experience some initial swelling, redness, or bruising that gradually resolves—makeup can be gently applied to help camouflage this. The donor site may also feel sore or swollen for a few days following your procedure.
Most patients are ready to resume their normal activities about a week after the procedure. We recommend protecting your skin from the sun and using gentle cleansers as your face heals. Keep in mind that if you pair a facial fat transfer with a cosmetic procedure such as a facelift, your recovery time may increase.
How Long Does a Facial Fat Transfer Last?
In addition to offering patients a safe, natural, and effective approach, facial fat transfer lasts longer than dermal fillers. In fact, it can be a permanent solution. However, it’s essential to understand that facial fat grafting is not impervious to the aging process. In other words, it can help you look more youthful and rejuvenated, but it cannot halt the brakes on Mother Nature. Also, while you will notice skin improvements immediately, achieving final results takes approximately 6 months.
Selecting the Best Facial Fat Transfer Surgeons in Florida
Undergoing surgery can be a daunting—yet life-changing—experience. That’s why it is imperative that you place your trust in capable hands. A facial fat transfer is a two-step procedure that requires the precision and skill of a highly experienced plastic surgeon who is well-versed in facial rejuvenation. Our Tallahassee, FL-based practice consists of 3 board-certified surgeons who have advanced training in various surgical techniques. They are supported by a capable and compassionate team devoted to your care, comfort, and privacy during each step of treatment.
Take the Next Step!
If you have resisted getting a facelift or want an alternative to dermal fillers, you may be ready to use facial fat transfer to regain a more youthful and vibrant appearance. We invite you to request a consultation with our Southeastern Plastic Surgery team. Or, you can call us at (850) 219-2000 to schedule an appointment.
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