Fat Transfer
Using Your Body's Own Cells for Volume and Contour

What nature takes away, surgeons can restore. Fat transfer has emerged as an excellent option for people concerned about a "hollow" look around the eyes and cheeks that often accompanies the aging process. Many people have not heard of fat transfer but it is a simple and effective treatment for facial aging.

Not Experimental
Fat transfer has been used in the cosmetic surgery field for 17 years, so the procedure is not new. It has been perfected over almost two decades.

The Technique
In fat transfer procedures fat cells are carefully removed from one area of the body (usually the legs or the belly) and processed through a centrifuge where the fat cells and serum are separated. The surgeon then carefully reinserts the fat cells beneath the skin in areas that are being enhanced.

Natural Results
Contouring and shaping using the body's own "material" produces very natural results. While we can't promise everyone that they'll look ten years younger, for many that is not just a figure of speech but the actual outcome.

Often we'll transfer some fat as a finishing touch after a facelift. Volume and contour are important elements in creating a look of youthful relaxation. By using fat transfers, we can sculpt the face after resolving the problem of excess, sagging skin.

The Procedure
Our practice performs fat transfers under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The length of time required depends on how many areas are being treated.

How Long Does the Improvement Last?
Good news! Fat transfers are more long-term than filler injections. While Restylane or other fillers provide excellent results for up to 6 months or so, fat transfers are more or less permanent. The procedure may be repeated years down the road, not because it wasn't successful the first time, but rather as a result of the body's continual aging process.

Before	After

What About Recovery Time?
Seven to ten days is the general timeframe required for full recovery from swelling and bruising particularly in the eye area. If you're planning to take time off from work or scheduling around social activities, this is a good rule of thumb.

What About Pain?
A normal amount of post-operative pain can be expected the first day or two, but pain medications can easily alleviate this. The important thing is to rest so that the body's natural healing processes can take place.

Will I have Scars?
For most people scarring is unlikely because the incisions for placement of the fat are very small.

Before	After

Is there An Optimal Age for Fat Transfer Procedures?
No, it is used as a cosmetic surgery option to counteract the signs of aging for individuals in their 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's and beyond. As long as the individual is a good candidate for this fat transfer, the procedure can be utilized.

Fat transfer is also used in procedures to correct facial deformities in children, young adults and adults. Therefore, age is not as relevant a consideration as whether or not fat transfer would be appropriate for the individual and the condition being addressed.