Fat
Transfer
Aging is a multi-factorial process consisting
of the loss of facial volume (fat and collagen),
sagging of the skin, and presence of age spots
and dyschromias. Each entity must be addressed
separately in order to obtain natural results.
The dyschromias and age spots are addressed with
the use of lasers and chemical peels. The sagging
skin is managed surgically by face lifts or non-surgically
by Thermage. Finally and most importantly the
lost volume must be replaced using either Hyaluronic
acids (Restylane, Juvederm, and Surgiderm) or
a persons own fat.
This procedure is the transfer of fat from one
area of the body to another. Fat may be harvested
from many areas such as such as the abdomen, outer
thighs or love handles and reinvested where needed.
Fat can be used to fill in depressions, add volume,
and fill scars or acne pitting. Since the fat
comes from ones own body there is no risk of rejection
or immune reaction.
How is the procedure performed?
There is a donor area (where the fat comes from)
and a recipient area (where the fat is being placed)
both are locally numbed with anesthetic (Lidocaine)
together with (epinephrine) to control bleeding
and bruising. There can be mild post procedure
discomfort and swelling for several days this
is to be expected and will resolve itself. If
any pain relief is needed Dr. Roham will attend
to such needs.
How long will the fat transfer last?
This will depend on how many of the transferred
fat cells survive the transfer. The techniques
used by Dr. will ensure the maximum survival rate
somewhere around 30 to 50% of transferred cells.
Therefore you may need 2-3 series of injections
to obtain a 100% full and permanent correction.
In order to ensure the high survival rate it is
preferable to do multiple transfers with small
amounts. Fat can be frozen after the first procedure
for later recipient areas. So the advantage of
a successful fat transfer is the length of time
the transfer can last, several years to permanently.
Facial Fat Transfer
The face is the primary choice for fat transfer.
Due to the natural process of aging the face loses
fat volume, causing an older look with increased
wrinkling and sagging, there is often a hallow
look under the eyes. Fat transfers are a choice
way to correct these problems with no chance of
rejection as this is your own donor fat.
Common facial areas for fat injection are the
cheeks, lips, jaw line, chin, temples, forehead,
brows and below the eyes. Before and after photos
will be taken so that you may observe the changes
in your facial contours.
What possible side effects will I experience?
1) Bruising and swelling for 1-2 days up to a
maximum of a week.
2) Possible oozing at the donor/recipient site.
3) Possible scarring at the donor site.
4) Some post procedure discomfort.
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