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What is Facial Fat Transfer?

Image of Ginger Lizardo, RN
Ginger Lizardo, RN

More and more patients are turning to natural anti-aging treatments whenever possible. Facial fat transfer is the ideal treatment option for many men and women because it uses your own fat to produce natural, long-lasting results. At Image Surgical Arts, triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Brady Harris regularly perform facial fat transfer procedures.

 
woman magnifying cheek
 
 
 

How Does it Work?

Facial fat transfer is done in a simple three-step process. First, fat is harvested from unwanted areas of fat (this fat is known as autologous fat) via advanced liposuction methods. Second, the fat cells are purified in a specialized device called a centrifuge. Finally, the prepared fat is re-injected into specific areas of the face.

Treatments are done in-office and are typically quick and easy. Most patients tolerate the procedure quite well with the help of either a local anesthetic, a light IV sedation, or an inhaled analgesia. You’ll be able to go home the same day with minimal downtime.

Where Does Fat Come From?

Fat can be harvested from nearly anywhere that isolated pockets exist. The most common areas used are the thighs, abdomen, and flanks. Dr. Harris  will assess your frame and help determine where the best place for fat removal may be.

What is Facial Fat Transfer Used For?

Once the fat is harvested from the donor site, there are several beneficial uses for it. Many patients opt for facial fat transfer to combat age-related volume loss. This can include sunken cheeks, under-eye hollows, and thinning lips. Harvested fat can also be used as a natural dermal filler to plump wrinkles around the nose and mouth.

 
 
 
 

Facial Fat Transfer Consultations Available

 
 
 
 
 

When Will I See Results?

Results from facial fat transfer can be seen almost immediately. The skin will appear fuller and more youthful. An optimal outcome will become evident anywhere from 2-6 weeks as any post-treatment swelling fully subsides. Projected results can vary based on the location of treatment.

How Long Does Fat Grafting Last?

You may see some depletion over the course of the first 6-weeks or so. Generally, after this time, any fat that remains within the treatment site takes on the roles of surrounding cells for long-term results. The exact amount of time fat transfer will last can vary from person to person. 

Depending on your natural aging process and your skincare habits, your treatment may last several years or more. For others, fat grafting can be a permanent solution. Dr. Harris will provide you with more in-depth information about facial fat grafting at the time of your initial consultation.

 
I have always had a great experience at Image Surgical Arts. Dr. Harris and his team are great!
 
 
 
 
 

Take the Next Step

Ready to learn more about facial fat transfer? Schedule your in-person consultation with triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Harris at Image Surgical Arts today. Simply fill out the contact form on this page or give us a call at 615-499-4224.

*Individual results may vary.