Facial Fat Grafting

Facial fat grafting involves using liposuction to extract fat from a donor area of the body. The extracted fat is then processed and transferred to syringes for injection into areas of the face lacking volume. Common areas for volume replenishment due to aging include the cheeks, around the nostrils, nasolabial folds, forehead, lips, under-eye bags, and eye hollows. This procedure offers a long-term solution similar to permanent fillers, with about 60% of the injected fat typically remaining over time. Additionally, facial fat grafting can improve skin quality and acne-scarred skin. 

How We Do It Differently

With local anesthetic and general anesthesia, Dr. Boonipat will make 2-3 mm incisions for liposuction, then use small needles to inject the fat to sculpt your face. In certain cases, we might suggest combining fat grafting with other procedures such as buccal fat removal or facial liposuction. 

FAQ: Facial Fat Grafting

Why is facial fat grafting performed?

• To restore volume to the face and contour it, giving it a natural youthful appearance 

• To contour the jawline and enhance and balance facial features 

Am I a good candidate for facial fat grafting surgery?

Aging leads to facial changes, including volume loss, downward movement of once-tight structures like fat pads, and thinning of skin and bone. These changes manifest as wrinkles on the neck, deepening nasolabial folds, descent and shrinkage of cheek fat pads causing eye bags, loss of lip volume, and drooping eyebrows. These changes typically begin to show in the mid to late twenties. Facial fat grafting effectively addresses volume loss associated with aging. Even younger individuals dissatisfied with their facial contours, such as cheeks, forehead, and chin, can benefit from facial fat grafting. 

What to Expect After Facial Fat Grafting Surgery

• Botox injections may accompany fat transfer to minimize fat resorption; temporary muscle function decrease is possible. 
• Mild to moderate facial swelling is anticipated post-surgery. 
• Expect moderate pain and swelling at the liposuctioned area, manageable with OTC and prescription medications. 
• Compression bandages may be provided for the liposuctioned area, to be worn consistently (24/7, except for shower breaks) for at least two weeks. 
• Bruising at the liposuctioned site is normal and typically resolves within 2-3 weeks. 
• Suture removal is usually unnecessary. 
• Return to a desk job is feasible after 3-7 days, depending on comfort. 
• Gradual resumption of physical activity can begin two weeks after surgery. 

Steps for Recovery:

• Sleep with your head elevated higher than your chest for several days.
• Minimize compresses to avoid displacing the fat.
• If necessary, use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief.

Avoid:

• Strenuous activities for 2-4 weeks. 
• Smoking. 
• Certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding. 

What are the Risks of Facial Fat Grafting Surgery?

Major complications are extremely rare. Some degree of asymmetry between the two sides is expected, but significant asymmetry is not anticipated. There is almost no risk of infection as no foreign material is used. There is always a chance you might need revision surgery. Bruising and swelling are expected but usually minimal. Bleeding is very rare but can occur and might require another procedure. 

Cost

Please contact us about the cost as the exact procedure needed is tailored to your goals and anatomy. Unless there is a medical indication for the fat grafting, insurance will not cover it.